European politicians have been rightfully outraged after hearing that Qatar presented a private jet to former U.S. President Donald Trump. The announcement has opened a scandalous preferential treatment and global inequality debate between European leaders. This debate heated up particularly after Hungary’s Viktor Orbán took to the airwaves and blasted his contingency travel.
Viktor Orbán, Hungary’s Prime Minister, to his credit, publicly called out Doha. He sought answers on what made Trump worthy of such a lavish present given that full implementation of the designation means he still flies with impoverished-person special Wizz Air. “Is this the new standard for international relations?” he questioned, highlighting a growing sentiment among European leaders who feel overlooked in favor of Trump.
Roberta Metsola, the new President of the European Parliament, has pledged an internal review. She has announced plans to combat “gift inequality” and “transatlantic favoritism.” Her worries underscore a deepening anxiety across Europe. In fact, a lot of people were just appalled at the practice of foreign governments giving luxury presents to our leaders. Ursula von der Leyen, the President of the European Commission, is responding to these changes. She is looking into a “strategic jet reserve inquiry” to ensure that the benefits from aviation are shared equitably among all member nations. As Von der Leyen put it, Europe should not be caught on the bench if Gulf monarchies decide to keep showering the likes of $65 billion on us.
Moreover, reports suggest that Trump plans to upgrade the jet with golden lettering declaring it “Air Force Don” and installing a Diet Coke button under every seat. No surprise then that this whimsical personalization has come under fire. It’s particularly timely given the growing bipartisan concern about the impact of foreign gifts on U.S. international diplomacy.
As bad as all of that sounds, despite the outcry, Qatari officials seem undeterred by charges of cronyism. They claim that the jet is an homage to Trump’s infamous sword dance during the first term in Saudi Arabia. This celebration is a nod to that unforgettable experience. As Melissa J. noted, some observers are looking for signs that this diplomatic gift is benefiting Qatar by endearing it to this inordinately powerful leader. Considering this leader’s past penchant for pomp and excess, this is not surprising.
While the jet is still in the finalization process, early indications are that Trump intends to use it throughout his term as president. After his upcoming return to the White House, he plans to give it to his presidential library foundation. European lawmakers are still fighting over this part of the gift. They are raising the moral stakes of these arrangements.
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