commentary Flattery has become a foreign policy strategy — and it's reshaping U.S. alliances Published April 30, 2026 6:45AM (EDT) Volodymyr Zelensky and Donald Trump (Photo illustration by Salon/Getty Images) When I think of Donald Trump , I envision a blimp flying overhead with huge flashing lights blazing “The world is yours!” This is his internal narrative — and he has the power to act on it. In the most recent example of his vanity project, the State Department will soon be issuing limited edition passports  featuring the president’s face to commemorate the country’s 250th anniversary. When Americans travel abroad, they will have Trump’s face in their pockets. The president’s egomania is not a source of strength. It is a vulnerability that the world has learned to exploit.…