Chris Voss, a renowned negotiation expert and former FBI lead negotiator, unveils Donald Trump's secret weapon in peace talks with Putin: emotional empathy. Voss highlights Trump's deep understanding of others' perspectives, which he believes is crucial in negotiations. This approach, focusing on understanding rather than agreement, is seen as a strength in Trump's diplomatic strategy.
Chris Voss Reveals Trump's Secret Weapon in Peace Negotiations
Chris Voss Reveals Trump's Secret Weapon in Peace Negotiations
He is described as the world's most experienced negotiator. Now, Chris Voss reveals Donald Trump's secret weapon in peace negotiations with Putin.
– He has a highly developed understanding of how other people perceive things, he tells the New York Times.
Chris Voss was the FBI's chief negotiator for hostage situations for over 25 years. After his time at the FBI, he became a recognized expert in negotiation techniques and is the author of the book "Never Split the Difference."
He is also an honorary professor at Harvard Law School and knows Donald Trump personally.
Voss sees something in Trump's negotiation tactics that could be to his advantage.
– I believe there are skills in emotional intelligence that are not conveyed through the media, and he seems to have an instinct and talent for just that, he tells the New York Times.
The Weapon: Empathy
Voss has specialized in something called "emotional empathy," which he has written several books about. The idea is that when a person feels understood, they are also more open to change.
– It's not about agreeing, but about understanding. When you feel truly heard, you become less resistant. Showing understanding and clearly conveying the other side's perspective – just that, without agreeing – is showing empathy, he says.
– Empathy is his strength. He has a highly developed understanding of how other people perceive things.
Putin: "Fundamental Issues Must Be Addressed"
Voss highlights Trump's choice not to assassinate Iran's leader Ayatollah Khamenei, but instead to attack the country's nuclear industry.
– The reporting was that Israel considered trying to take out the Iranian leader and that Trump was against it. My view is that it's wise for several reasons, he says.
– I don't think he's unaware of how people perceive things, and lacking empathy is being unaware. What decisions that leads to is a completely different question.
On Monday, Donald Trump and Volodymyr Zelensky will meet at the White House. The Ukrainian president will be joined by the leaders of the UK and France, Keir Starmer and Emmanuel Macron.