Recent actions and statements by President Donald Trump regarding Ukraine and its President Volodymyr Zelenskyy bring Machiavelli to mind.

Machiavelli wrote The Prince in 1532, a treatise on leadership and power. He advised:

“A prince ought to inspire fear in such a way that, if he does not win love, he avoids hatred.”

Hatred leads to instability and rebellion—something a leader must avoid. I’m not a fan of Machiavelli’s leadership style. It’s brutal and archaic, but it seems relevant at the moment.

On February 19, 2025, Trump called Zelenskyy a “dictator without elections” and suggested that Ukraine initiated the war with Russia. These assertions not only misrepresent the situation but also echo narratives promoted by Russia.

The U.S. engaged in peace talks with Russia—excluding Ukraine. This sidelining is a betrayal, stripping Ukraine of any voice in determining its future.

The U.S. also proposed a deal to take 50% of Ukraine’s critical minerals in exchange for support. Zelenskyy rejected it, citing the lack of security guarantees. This looks like a quid pro quo—or worse, an exploitation of a nation fighting for survival.

Trump is signaling that Ukraine is disposable. That puts the U.S. in the “hated” column with Ukrainians.

The U.S. was not alone in supporting Ukraine. NATO, the EU, and G7 nations stood with us.

Machiavelli teaches that alliances are built on self-interest, not loyalty. Allies remain as long as it benefits them—but they require reliability. If an ally fears betrayal, they will strengthen their own defenses or turn to a rival power—like China.

Trump’s Ukraine reversal isn’t going to win the U.S. any love. It will push us closer to being resented—and hated.

Trump’s actions signal weakness to Russia. He is blaming Ukraine for the war. Excluding Ukraine and NATO allies from peace talks. Proposing concessions that benefit Russia.

If Trump’s policy ends the war, it may save lives.

But at what cost?

It is Ukrainian blood, not ours. Ukraine deserves a seat at the table. They deserve a voice.

Trump’s Ukraine policy makes America weaker. It erodes trust among allies—who will hedge their bets and reduce dependence on the U.S. It emboldens adversaries—Russia now fears the U.S. less. It diminishes U.S. global influence—pushing allies toward other powers, like China.

The long-term cost? A weaker, more isolated America with less leverage in future conflicts.

In the end, Russia gets a costly win. Everybody else loses.

There is nothing here to be proud of.

And a final Machiavellian warning: “A prince who sacrifices allies for short-term gain finds himself alone when he needs them most.”