From truce in the trenches to cocktails at the consulate: How Christmas diplomacy seeks to exploit seasonal goodwill

By: Andrew Latham, Macalester College, The Conversation

Outlets: The Conversation

Published: December 20, 2025

Words: 964

Last Updated: 5 days, 20 hours ago

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By Andrew Latham, Macalester College

President Donald Trump is reportedly setting his sights on a Christmas peace deal in the Ukraine-Russia war.

The timing is apt. Every December, political leaders reach instinctively for the language of goodwill. Meanwhile, diplomats the world over use the season to host parties at which gift-giving and booze are used to help foster friendships.

The notion that the holiday season might bring a respite from …

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