It used to be that the United States, as the dominant world power, was the most powerful driving force behind world events, for better or for worse. It made mistakes sometimes, but it was a player. Now, with Trump in charge, the world has been learning that it has to manipulate him in order to get what it wants. Through flattery, or offering a deal, or refusing to budge until he inevitably backs down. This has changed the whole dynamic in ways you don't spot immediately. Although all the noise and bluster makes you think that the US is pushing everyone else to respond, actually, it has made itself into a piece on the board, rather than a player in its own right. Let's discuss.