Across Europe and Asia, concern went beyond whether Trump’s apocalyptic threat was real or bluster. One fear, the diplomat said, was that Russia could seize the moment to justify similar threats in Ukraine, triggering a nuclear crisis on two continents.

European governments immediately sought reassurance through the US State Department. But officials there reportedly gave an unsettling response: they did not know what Trump meant or what actions his words might signal.

The episode, described as previously unreported, points to what diplomats call a breakdown in American diplomacy.

Governments are now struggling to interpret signals from Washington, with traditional contact points in embassies and the State Department described as missing or out of the loop.

At least half of America’s 195 ambassadorial posts are reportedly vacant.

Margaret MacMillan, an Oxford University professor of international history, said the Trump administration is weakening America’s ability to understand the world and increasing the risk of global instability.

The Trump administration rejects the claim, saying changes have strengthened diplomacy and streamlined decision-making.

As career diplomats are sidelined, allies are reportedly shifting away from formal channels and relying on a small circle of people with direct access to the president, increasing dependence on informal back channels.

Following Trump’s warning on Iran, officials in Britain, France and Germany reportedly drafted a “harsh” joint statement but chose not to publish it, deciding his remarks were bluster and that public criticism could escalate tensions. By evening, Trump announced a ceasefire.

The report also says more than a year into Trump’s second term, influence is increasingly concentrated among a few envoys and advisers, including Jared Kushner and Steve Witkoff, who have no formal diplomatic background.

Some countries are said to now prioritise communication with them over official channels.

Other governments have developed unconventional access routes, including South Korea engaging directly with the White House chief of staff and Japan reportedly using SoftBank founder Masayoshi Son as an intermediary.

The State Department has undergone major restructuring under Secretary of State Marco Rubio, including staff reductions and ambassador recalls.

According to diplomats cited in the report, 109 of 195 ambassadorial posts are currently vacant.

A White House official said the changes have made government “more efficient and less bloated” and better able to execute foreign policy.

The report says many embassies are now led by acting officials rather than confirmed ambassadors, which some countries view as a downgrade in diplomatic capacity.

In Ukraine, former ambassador Bridget Brink said the suspension of military aid in 2025 came without warning and created serious security concerns. She later resigned in protest.

The report also describes internal disruption at the National Security Council, where staffing cuts reduced coordination capacity, and officials increasingly relied on presidential social media posts for policy signals.

Officials quoted in the report say embassies and career diplomats have been cut out of key decision-making processes, while the White House says experienced professionals remain involved and that direct presidential engagement strengthens diplomacy.

The account further highlights that some allies now choose not to publicly respond to Trump’s most extreme statements, preferring restraint to avoid escalation. Others, however, continue to respond cautiously.

US officials reject claims of dysfunction, saying the administration’s structure improves efficiency and strengthens direct global engagement.