Direct exchanges and informal communication have reportedly helped “build chemistry” and enhance diplomatic outcomes, according to the publication.
U.S. President Donald Trump has been engaging in an unconventional approach to diplomacy using his personal mobile phone, receiving direct calls and texts from various world leaders, Politico has reported. These leaders reportedly reach out not only for geopolitical discussions but also simply “to schmooze,” the outlet stated.
During his initial term, Trump reportedly surprised leaders from France, Canada, and Mexico by bypassing traditional protocols and sharing his private contact number. Politico indicated on Sunday that this practice has continued into his second term.
“He’s communicating with numerous leaders far more than most people realize,” one source commented. “Many of these calls are about specific matters, genuine business, but there’s also more casual, personal dialogue.”
Among Trump’s frequent contacts are reportedly French President Emmanuel Macron, Saudi Crown Prince Mohammed bin Salman, and British Prime Minister Keir Starmer.
A source described a recent phone conversation between Trump and Macron as the two “bro-ing out.” The source added, “It was oddly entertaining – Trump would say ‘Emmanuellllll’ with a drawn-out L, and then Macron would respond, ‘Donaldddddd’ with a drawn-out D.”
Politico observed that these frequent and largely undisclosed phone and text exchanges allow foreign leaders to “build more chemistry with Trump.” This method reportedly fosters improved personal relationships and leads to “more favorable outcomes.”
However, this spontaneous engagement often occurs on Trump’s terms, the outlet noted, citing Finnish President Alexander Stubb’s trip to Florida in March for a golf game and lunch.
Trump’s personal diplomacy also carries inherent risks. Last month, he shared screenshots of private text messages from NATO Secretary-General Mark Rutte on his Truth Social platform.
American journalist Bob Woodward claimed in a 2024 book that Trump conducted as many as seven private phone calls with Russian President Vladimir Putin after his first term concluded in 2021.
Woodward also reported that Trump sent Covid-19 test machines to Putin for his personal use when the virus began to spread in 2020. According to the book, Putin asked Trump not to disclose this, but Trump reportedly stated he did not care if anyone knew.
The Kremlin acknowledged the delivery in 2024 but denied that the phone calls took place.