Former US President Donald Trump, in anticipation of his Trump 2.0 administration, has announced a series of significant diplomatic appointments. The new nominees include John Arrigo as Ambassador to Portugal, Somers Farkas as Ambassador to Malta, and Mauricio Claver-Carone as Special Envoy for Latin America. The announcements, characteristic of Trump’s style, were made via his Truth Social platform on Wednesday.
John Arrigo to represent the US in Portugal
Trump’s choice for the ambassadorship to Portugal is John Arrigo, a prominent figure in the automotive industry.
In his announcement, Trump stated, “It is my great honour to announce that John Arrigo will serve as the next United States Ambassador to Portugal.”
The former president lauded Arrigo’s leadership and business acumen, saying, “John is a highly successful entrepreneur in the automotive industry and a champion golfer. For over thirty years, he has been an incredible leader in business in West Palm Beach and is respected by all. I have known John for a long time. He will do an incredible job for our Country and always put America FIRST.”
Arrigo currently serves as vice president of the Arrigo Auto Group, which operates in West Palm Beach, Florida, a region closely associated with Trump due to the proximity of his Mar-a-Lago resort. The Hill reports that Arrigo has been a frequent attendee at Mar-a-Lago events and an ally of Trump’s policies.
Somers Farkas appointed ambassador to Malta
Trump also announced the nomination of Somers Farkas as the new US Ambassador to Malta, emphasising her diverse background and philanthropic contributions.
“I am pleased to announce that Somers Farkas will serve as the next United States Ambassador to the Republic of Malta,” Trump shared.
He elaborated on her qualifications, highlighting her achievements as a model, philanthropist, documentary producer, and business leader.
“Somers is a model, philanthropist, documentary producer, and very successful businesswoman. She previously served on my President’s Commission on White House Fellowships and has raised millions of dollars for charity, including for the American Society for the Prevention of Cruelty to Animals, the Alzheimer’s Association, Lighthouse Guild, the New York Women’s Foundation, and as a Trustee of the New York City Police Foundation where she has always BACKED THE BLUE,” Trump stated.
Farkas’ philanthropic work and support for law enforcement were noted as integral to her selection, with Trump highlighting her commitment to “putting America first.”
Mauricio claver-carone as special envoy for Latin America
In an earlier announcement, Trump revealed that Mauricio Claver-Carone, a former official in his administration, would be appointed as Special Envoy for Latin America.
Claver-Carone, known for his strong stance on US-Latin America relations, is expected to tackle critical issues such as illegal migration and the fentanyl crisis.
Trump commented, “Mauricio will help put America’s interests first and address the dire threats we face from illegal mass migration and fentanyl.”
Claver-Carone previously served as the president of the Inter-American Development Bank and was a key figure in shaping Trump’s Latin American policies during his first term. His reappointment signals a continuation of Trump’s assertive approach to the region, focusing on economic partnerships and border security.
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Trump’s diplomatic style
The appointments underscore Trump’s preference for individuals from non-traditional diplomatic backgrounds, often selecting business leaders, philanthropists, and former political allies for key roles. This approach aligns with his “America First” philosophy, prioritising appointees he believes will advance US interests and bolster his administration’s standing on the global stage.
Both Arrigo and Farkas bring unique credentials to their roles. Arrigo’s business expertise may enhance economic ties with Portugal, while Farkas’ philanthropic work and commitment to law enforcement could strengthen US-Malta relations.
Challenges ahead
The new ambassadors and envoy will face pressing challenges. Arrigo will need to navigate US-European relations amid ongoing tensions surrounding trade and security policies. Farkas, as ambassador to Malta, will be pivotal in addressing issues such as Mediterranean migration and US-EU collaborations.
For Claver-Carone, the task is more urgent. Latin America is grappling with rising instability, drug trafficking, and migration crises, all of which demand immediate and strategic US engagement.
Conclusion
Trump’s latest appointments reflect his trademark style of rewarding loyalty and prioritising US-centric diplomacy. As his administration gears up for a potential second term, these announcements signal a blend of continuity and reinvention in Trump’s approach to foreign policy. Whether these appointments will deliver on his ambitious promises remains to be seen, but their success will likely shape Trump’s legacy in international relations.
