In a stark warning, columnist Brian Reade has declared that the world can no longer afford to appease an "out-of-control" Donald Trump, whose escalating obsession with acquiring foreign territory represents a clear and present danger to global stability.
The Growing Ambitions of a 'Superpower Mafia'
Reade points to the American president's persistent interest in acquiring Greenland as the latest manifestation of a disturbing pattern. This ambition, he argues, cannot be viewed in isolation. It follows what he describes as an illegal coup in Venezuela and threats directed towards nations like Cuba, Colombia, Mexico, and Canada.
The columnist dismisses Trump's justification—a reinterpretation of the Monroe Doctrine into a so-called "Donroe Doctrine." Instead, Reade frames it as the "Don Corleone Doctrine," painting a picture of America as a superpower mafia with Trump as its boss, making offers that cannot be refused.
Europe's Complicity and Historical Hypocrisy
Reade acknowledges the uncomfortable historical parallels for European nations, referencing the Berlin Conference of 1884-85, where African borders were carved up by colonial powers. However, he asserts that this history does not excuse current inaction.
He is scathing in his criticism of European leaders for their role in enabling Trump's behaviour. He cites instances of excessive flattery, including NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte calling Trump "daddy" and Keir Starmer facilitating a royal invitation for a second state visit. This, Reade claims, has only "encouraged the demon" in the president.
A Call for Concrete Action: Hit Back Where It Hurts
The time for fawning is over, Reade insists. For the sake of global security and European dignity, leaders must "get off their knees" and draw a line. He proposes a concrete, powerful response leveraging the EU and UK's collective economic might.
With a combined population of 520 million wealthy consumers, the bloc is America's most vital export market. Reade urges European capitals to warn Trump that any forcible attempt on Greenland would trigger a continent-wide blockade on American trade, a ban on US tourists, and boycotts of major sporting events like the World Cup and 2028 Olympics. Closer diplomatic ties with China should also be on the table.
Finally, Reade advises that when Trump inevitably retaliates on social media, European leaders must speak to him in a language he understands: the blunt, transactional parlance of power. He suggests a direct quote from *The Godfather Part II*, telling Trump and his team: "I don't like your kind of people... I despise your masquerade." The message, Reade concludes, should be clear: It's not personal, it's just business.
