Diplomatic unrest: the new approach of American envoys in Europe
Diplomatic relations between the United States and Europe are under pressure due to a striking change of course by American envoys. Where diplomacy previously revolved around formal talks and policy agreements, the current representatives of Donald Trump seem to be following a very different strategy.
This new approach is causing astonishment in European capitals, including Brussels. Instead of focusing on traditional political themes, the envoys are using their position to promote unconventional projects. A striking example of this is the active promotion of the film about Melania Trump, which is considered by many to be unusual for diplomatic staff.
Critics argue that this working method undermines traditional diplomacy. In the diplomatic world, it is customary for envoys to work on strengthening ties between countries and discussing economic or security issues. The current focus on commercial or personal projects is seen by European diplomats as a break with established etiquette.
For Belgium, as the heart of the European Union and NATO, the relationship with the United States is of great importance. The unusual attitude of the American envoys raises questions about what future cooperation between Washington and the European institutions will look like. It is still unclear whether this new style is a temporary phenomenon or a permanent change in American foreign policy.