In her analysis, Anne Applebaum contends that Donald Trump's approach to governance is marked by an absence of strategic thought. According to Applebaum, Trump operates on whims and impulses rather than long-term planning, often failing to recognize how his decisions may have far-reaching consequences. She believes that Trump’s inability to connect current actions to future outcomes reflects a fundamental disconnect from reality, undermining effective leadership.

Moreover, Applebaum highlights a concerning trend over the past 14 months, during which only a select group of foreign leaders have acknowledged the possibility that someone without a coherent strategy could rise to the presidency of the United States. This indicates a broader unease among international observers regarding the unpredictability and erratic behavior of the Trump administration. The skepticism among foreign policy analysts underscores a growing perception that Trump's leadership is more reactionary than calculated.

Finally, the article raises questions about the implications of such impulsive leadership on global relations and diplomacy. Without the ability to think historically or strategically, the risks associated with Trump’s presidency extend beyond national borders, affecting how other leaders and nations respond to American policies. Applebaum’s critique serves as a warning of the potential instability caused by a leader who favors immediate gratification over thoughtful governance.