Today's Briefing: Power Struggles in Trade, Politics, and Influence
From global trade wars to Musk’s political interference in Europe, cultural clashes over power and control are shaping the future of business and diplomacy.
Global leaders and corporations are engaged in a battle over influence, control, and economic dominance.
The US is pressuring Ukraine into an economic deal that favors American interests while offering little security. Trump’s trade war is driving up prices and disrupting markets, testing the limits of economic nationalism. Meanwhile, Elon Musk’s political activism creates friction with European governments, exposing deeper cultural divides over power and authority.
These aren’t just policy shifts—they reflect a broader struggle over who should set the rules in the global economy.
Power Imbalances are Shaping Ukraine’s Economic Future
The US is finalizing a minerals deal with Ukraine, but the agreement forces Kyiv to concede major economic leverage while receiving no security guarantees.
Ukraine operates in a diplomatic culture where flexibility and alliances matter. Under Trump, the US is treating the deal as a rigid business transaction—one where power and leverage dictate the terms. As Ukraine faces mounting pressure, this deal reveals how global influence is often determined by economic dependency rather than political alliances.
Trade Wars Are Driving Up Prices and Disrupting Markets
The latest round of tariffs on Mexico, Canada, and China is shaking the global economy, increasing costs for businesses and consumers.
Trump’s trade policies reflect an individualistic economic philosophy—prioritizing national control over market stability. While the administration sees tariffs as a tool for protecting domestic industries, global markets rely on cooperation, free trade, and predictability. The fallout from these policies will determine whether the U.S. strengthens its economy or isolates itself from long-term economic growth.
Musk’s Political Influence in Europe Is Causing Friction
Elon Musk’s vocal support for far-right politicians and his resistance to European regulations put him in direct conflict with EU leaders.
Musk sees power as personal, using his influence to shape political movements. European governments operate through structured institutions where rules apply universally. His approach is clashing with a political system built on stability, and the fallout could have serious implications for his businesses and influence in Europe.
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Recommendation
Want to learn more about what and why you do the things you do? We suggest reading Mining the Psyche.
The first in the At Large in the Maze of Myth series, Mining the Psyche, follows Michael Allman, a disillusioned Londoner whose impulsive journey to confront an old acquaintance leads to a psychological odyssey where myth and reality intertwine.
M.J. Hornby’s novel will give you insight into yourself and others - a framework for understanding why people act the way they do - much like cultural dimensions help explain how people interact and relate to one another. Kindle Unlimited currently offers it for free. Get it here.