**Trump’s Shift in Diplomacy: Embracing Autocrats as Protests Erupt**

As President Trump takes office, his approach signals a departure from democratic values, raising concerns globally.

In a striking departure from traditional American diplomatic norms, President Trump has begun to praise leaders who undermine democratic principles while simultaneously facing domestic and international dissent. During a recent meeting at the White House with U.S. ambassadors, President Trump referred to Turkish President Recep Tayyip Erdogan—an individual he previously labeled an "autocrat"—as “a good leader.” This endorsement comes at a time when protests are erupting across Turkey in response to the arrest of Istanbul's Mayor Ekrem Imamoglu, Erdogan’s chief political rival.

The implications of Trump’s comments are significant; they signal a potential pivot in U.S. foreign policy that emphasizes alignment with autocratic leaders over supporting democratic structures. This trend eschews the longstanding bipartisan effort that aimed to strengthen global democratic institutions. Instead, Trump appears to be establishing closer ties with leaders who exhibit authoritarian tendencies, a move that could embolden similar actions in countries like Serbia and Israel, where democratically elected officials have already begun to stretch their powers.

As Trump steps away from formerly established diplomatic protocols, his actions raise questions about the future of U.S. involvement in global democracy. The admiration he expresses for leaders like Erdogan, in light of human rights concerns and political unrest, paints a troubling picture for opponents of authoritarianism around the globe. With protests raging in the streets of Turkey, many wonder how Trump's foreign policy could shape global democratic efforts going forward.