Ian Bremmer: Trump Circle Shows ‘Kleptocratic, Oligarchic Impulse’ in Dealings with Pakistan

New Delhi, Sep 19 : Political scientist and Eurasia Group President Ian Bremmer has alleged that the Trump family and its associates are engaging with Pakistan primarily for financial gain rather than strategic reasons, calling it “a kleptocratic and oligarchic impulse.”

In an interview with , Bremmer said:

“There is a lack of ethics, a kleptocratic and oligarchic impulse with the family and a constellation of people around the administration who are conducting a lot of business with Pakistan. I don’t think it’s a particular strategic shift — it’s opportunistic and about money.”

On Saudi–Pakistan Defence Pact

Bremmer also commented on the recently announced Saudi-Pakistan mutual defence agreement, noting that it was not concealed from the U.S. and ties back to Saudi Arabia’s nuclear hedge with Pakistan. He said the Trump administration did not appear to object to the pact, which strengthens Saudi security options amidst rising regional tensions following Israel’s strikes on Iran.

Impact on India

Bremmer warned that the agreement complicates India’s security environment:

“Next time India engages with Pakistan militarily, it has to consider whether Saudi Arabia might step in to defend Pakistan.”

Trump’s Global Approach

Criticizing former U.S. President Trump’s style, Bremmer said he disregards established domestic and international norms:

“Trump’s view is: I’m powerful, I’m the president, you’ve got to listen to me. If you don’t, there will be consequences.”

However, Bremmer praised Prime Minister Narendra Modi for standing firm against Trump, recalling when Modi publicly denied Trump’s claims on India–Pakistan mediation:

“Most leaders would have stayed silent, but Modi embarrassed Trump on the global stage — that was significant.”