Kim Jong Un – mackaycartoons

Wednesday September 3, 2025

September 3, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Wednesday September 3, 2025

Also published in The Korea Times, Posted to Reddit.

Red Carpet Diplomacy: Trump’s Global Tango

May 3, 2017

In an unprecedented display of diplomatic choreography, former President Donald Trump recently rolled out the red carpet for Vladimir Putin in Alaska, marking a striking shift in the U.S.-Russia dynamic. This spectacle, replete with military salutes and cordial smiles, signals not just the thawing of decades-long hostilities but also underscores the erratic trajectory of American foreign policy under Trump. The meeting, which took place against the backdrop of Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine—a nation traditionally allied with the U.S.—highlights the divergence between diplomatic gestures and geopolitical realities.

News: Putin and Xi Invoke Wartime Unity as They Hail Ties in Beijing

August 15, 2025

The Alaskan summit was a harbinger of Trump’s foreign policy approach: transactional, unpredictable, and often at odds with established norms. As the U.S. extended this diplomatic courtesy to Putin, the world looked on with a mix of astonishment and concern. The spectacle seemed to disregard Russia’s actions in Ukraine, raising questions about America’s commitment to its allies and its moral leadership on the global stage.

Now, as the world turns its eyes to Beijing, a similar red carpet treatment awaits Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong-Un, another figure with whom Trump has professed personal affinity. The presence of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, fresh off the sting of a 50% tariff imposed by Trump for purchasing Russian oil, alongside the leadership of Iran—whose nuclear ambitions were recently curtailed by U.S. intervention—paints a picture of a world realigning itself in response to America’s unpredictable diplomacy.

January 16, 2020

This assembly of leaders in China underscores a significant geopolitical shift. With Xi Jinping at the helm, China is solidifying its position as a counterweight to Western influence, forging closer ties with Russia and nations traditionally outside the U.S. sphere of influence. The inclusion of India and Iran in these discussions only amplifies the narrative of an America increasingly isolated by its own policies.

Critics argue that Trump’s “America First” mantra has paradoxically weakened the nation’s standing, alienating allies and emboldening adversaries. The transactional nature of his diplomacy has frayed the fabric of longstanding alliances, leaving traditional partners like NATO, Canada, and Germany questioning the reliability of U.S. commitments. Meanwhile, countries like China and Russia are capitalizing on this uncertainty, presenting a united front that challenges U.S. influence and seeks to reshape the global order.

News: Xi, Putin and Kim meet for first time in show of solidarity against West

March 6, 2025

The implications of this diplomatic realignment are profound. As China and Russia strengthen their ties, bolstered by support from nations like North Korea and Iran, the U.S. finds itself at a crossroads. The need for coherent, principled leadership in international relations has never been more urgent. Yet, under Trump, America’s foreign policy seems adrift, driven by personal whims rather than strategic foresight.

In the end, the red carpet diplomacy witnessed in Alaska and Beijing serves as a poignant reminder of the shifting sands of global power. As the U.S. grapples with the consequences of its foreign policy choices, the world watches and waits, pondering the future of a superpower seemingly at odds with itself.

Trump’s Diplomatic Circus

In the wild world of global politics, Trump’s presidency has turned the balance of power into a chaotic spectacle. With China and India rising, Trump supporters claim he’s strategically positioning the U.S. to face these challenges. However, recent actions suggest otherwise. Just weeks ago, Trump rolled out the red carpet for Putin in Alaska, while Russia continues its aggressive invasion of Ukraine, a U.S. ally. Now, leaders like China’s Xi and North Korea’s Kim Jong-Un, who are growing closer to Russia, are coming together, highlighting a shift away from U.S. influence.

Meanwhile, Trump’s tariffs on Indian oil purchases and erratic policies are isolating traditional allies, suggesting a decline rather than a resurgence of American global power. The “America First” mantra seems less like a strategic masterstroke and more like a stumbling block, hastening the U.S.’s fall from its leadership position on the world stage. If this is the new strategy, it might be time for a serious rethink.

Saturday April 5, 2025

April 5, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Saturday April 5, 2025 (Also, The Toronto Star)

The New Economic Landscape Post-Trump

April 4, 2025

In a world once defined by the stability of Pax Americana, marked by strong alliances and economic interdependence, the policies of Donald Trump’s administration have ushered in a period of unprecedented economic transformation. This era is characterized not by isolationism or autarky, but by a redefinition of global relationships and economic strategies.

Under Trump, the U.S. has pursued aggressive tariff policies and a rhetoric that prioritizes “America First.” This approach, while not fully isolationist, has undeniably strained relationships with long-time allies, pushing nations like Canada to explore new economic opportunities beyond their traditional reliance on the United States.

Opinion: Give Trump the Isolation He Craves

April 3, 2025

As Sarah Neumann points out in Modern Diplomacy, the cessation of U.S. aid to global institutions under Trump’s leadership signals a retreat from the country’s historical role as a global leader. This shift has forced allies to reconsider their strategies, emphasizing diversification and resilience over dependency.

Canada, sharing the longest undefended border with the U.S., finds itself at a crossroads. As highlighted by Phoebe Maltz Bovy in The Globe and Mail, the “Buy Canadian” movement reflects a broader trend of seeking independence from American economic influence. This movement, driven by both pragmatic and political motivations, underscores a desire to assert Canadian sovereignty and economic stability in a world where U.S. policies have become unpredictable.

Opinion: From Canada-washing to isolationism, there are challenges in ‘Buy Canadian’

April 2, 2025

The ripple effects of Trump’s tariffs, as discussed in the context of U.S.-Canada trade relations, illustrate the broader challenges and opportunities faced by nations traditionally aligned with the U.S. While Canadian industries grapple with barriers to their largest market, they also recognize the potential in strengthening ties with other global partners, from the European Union to Asia-Pacific nations.

In this context, Mark Carney’s assertion that “the traditional relationship, marked by deep economic integration and close security cooperation, is effectively over,” captures the essence of this historic shift. He emphasizes the need for Canada to develop an economy less reliant on the U.S., suggesting the possibility of significant retaliatory measures. This marks a pivotal departure from the cooperative ties of the past, driven by current trade tensions and the broader geopolitical landscape shaped by Trump’s protectionist policies.

March 12, 2025

Mark Carney’s assertion that the era of Pax Americana is over resonates with the current global sentiment. The benefits that once flowed from a stable U.S.-led global order are being questioned as allies seek new pathways to economic prosperity. The end of this era does not equate to the U.S. becoming a “Hermit Kingdom,” but it does signify a shift from unilateral dominance to a multipolar world where countries must navigate complex trade dynamics and form new alliances.

Opinion: Willful Isolation

This historic moment is not merely a challenge but an opportunity for nations to redefine their economic identities. As countries pivot away from reliance on U.S. economic policies, they are compelled to innovate, diversify, and build resilient economies capable of thriving in a globalized world.

Ultimately, the transformation initiated by Trump’s policies is a call to action for both the U.S. and its allies. It is a reminder that global stability and prosperity depend on collaboration, adaptability, and a willingness to embrace new economic paradigms. As we move forward, the lessons learned from this era will shape the future of international relations and economic strategies, marking the end of one chapter and the beginning of another in world history.

Of Hermits and Americans Abroad

It’s a curious spectacle, observing the dichotomy between the globe-trotting Americans—those lively voices that penetrate the serene settings of foreign lands—and the insular policies championed by Trump’s administration.

Americans certainly have a knack for making their presence known when travelling abroad, whether it’s through loud, animated discussions about their Wyoming ski adventures or their children’s prestigious colleges, all while donning backward baseball caps in upscale foreign bistros. Have you caught the latest series, “White Lotus?” The characters, affluent American guests at a luxurious resort in Thailand, seem blissfully unaware of their exotic surroundings. Parker Posey’s character hilariously refers to their location as “China or wherever,” encapsulating a certain obliviousness. This zest for global travel stands in stark contrast to the “America First” policies we’re witnessing, with Trump steering the nation towards economic self-reliance. His rhetoric, filled with trade accusations, paints a picture of a retreat towards a more isolated stance, reminiscent of a “Hermit Kingdom” in spirit.

From my Canadian perch, it’s amusing to note the irony: while some Americans gallivant across the globe, others seem content in their own backyard, possibly indifferent to the world beyond. It’s as if the nation is recalibrating its international engagements, prompting other countries to metaphorically move their poolside chairs to quieter spots.

Trump’s peculiar fondness for leaders like Kim Jong Un adds an amusing twist to this narrative, leaving me wondering about the long-term direction of the U.S. Are we witnessing a temporary phase of isolation, or is this a lasting transformation of America’s global role?

Check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for April 5, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I share weekly editorial cartoons every Saturday morning. Substack is a crucial platform for me amidst the uncertainties of being a staff cartoonist, especially given recent layoffs and newspaper closures affecting our field. As long as I hold my position, subscriptions will remain free. Thank you for your support! This “note” helps craft my weekly posts and showcases animated versions of my cartoons. Enjoy!

YouTube animation: https://youtu.be/4W0zj_5u-DY

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Friday February 21, 2025

February 21, 2025 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday February 21, 2025 (also, The Toronto Star)

Trump’s Dangerous Dance with Authoritarianism: Rewriting Reality

October 26, 2024

In a world increasingly fraught with geopolitical tensions and the stark realities of authoritarian aggression, the responsibility of democratic nations to uphold truth and justice has never been more critical. As former President Donald Trump seeks to rewrite history by casting Ukraine as a villain and its leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, as a dictator, it is imperative that the global community stands united against this dangerous narrative.

The facts are clear and undisputed: Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022 was an unprovoked act of aggression, a blatant breach of international law, and a humanitarian disaster that has claimed countless innocent lives. Ukraine, under the steadfast leadership of Zelenskyy, has fought valiantly to defend its sovereignty and democratic principles against an authoritarian regime bent on its destruction.

December 10, 2024

Trump’s recent comments not only distort these truths but also align disturbingly with the playbook of authoritarian leaders like Vladimir Putin, a man widely recognized as a war criminal due to his regime’s actions in Ukraine. By shifting blame onto the victim of this brutal conflict, Trump undermines the very principles of justice and democracy that the United States and its allies have long championed.

As highlighted in a New York Times piece by Peter Baker, Trump’s revisionism involves “a striking distortion of reality,” where he falsely accuses Ukraine of initiating the conflict and portrays Zelenskyy as a “dictator without elections.” Such rhetoric not only misleads but also endangers the fragile alliances and support systems that have been built to uphold international law and order.

News: Trump Flips the Script on the Ukraine War, Blaming Zelensky Not Putin

September 28, 2024

This revisionist rhetoric poses a grave threat to the established world order, one that has, despite its imperfections, largely sought to promote peace, stability, and human rights. By sowing doubt and division, Trump risks weakening the unity of Western nations and emboldening authoritarian regimes that see opportunity in discord.

It is incumbent upon the leaders of democratic nations, including those in Europe, Canada, the UK, and beyond, to resist this dangerous narrative. Silence in the face of such blatant misinformation and revisionism is not an option. To remain silent is to tacitly endorse a worldview that values power over principle, lies over truth, and tyranny over freedom.

February 13, 2024

As one courageous GOP congressman pointed out, Vladimir Putin’s actions warrant the label of war criminal, a fact that cannot be ignored or softened by political expediency. It is a moral and ethical imperative for politicians, regardless of party affiliation, to speak out against any attempt to rehabilitate or justify his regime’s actions.

History will judge those who, in a time of moral crisis, chose the path of least resistance. It will remember those who stood by and allowed truth to be eclipsed by falsehoods for political gain. But it will also honour those who had the courage to speak out, to defend the values of democracy and human rights, and to stand with the oppressed against their oppressors.

In this pivotal moment, the global community must reaffirm its commitment to these principles. We must reject revisionism, support the victims of aggression, and hold accountable those who seek to distort reality for their own ends. Only by doing so can we hope to preserve the fragile peace and order that so many have fought and died to protect.

Today, I poured my creativity into crafting a cartoon that tackles a situation fraught with serious implications. The focus was on former President Donald Trump’s recent statements about Ukraine’s leader, Volodymyr Zelenskyy, amidst the ongoing conflict with Russia. Despite the cartoon’s lighthearted approach, the underlying issues are deeply concerning.

It’s telling that a lot of people say everything Trump says is a lie, reflecting a widespread skepticism and mistrust. This perception adds a layer of complexity, especially as Trump leads efforts to broker peace in a critical conflict with questionable intentions. Many still believe him, which only deepens the divide between those who seek truth and those who follow his narrative.

While the cartoon aims to entertain, it also highlights the troubling reality of misleading rhetoric. It underscores my worry about the direction of global politics and the urgent need for leaders who prioritize truth and genuine peace efforts.

Please check out my making-of animated editorial cartoon for February 21, 2025, below! If you haven’t yet, please subscribe to my Substack newsletter, where I release my post every Saturday morning summarizing the week through my editorial cartoons. What you’re reading here is a “note,” designed to help craft my weekly posts and display the animated versions of my daily cartoons. Enjoy!

– The Graeme Gallery

Read on Substack

Tuesday June 18, 2024

June 19, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Tuesday June 18, 2024

*Watch the animated version here!

Russia’s Desperate Arms Deal with North Korea: A Sign of Decline

September 14, 2023

Once a proud exporter of advanced weaponry, Russia now finds itself in the humiliating position of importing lower-quality arms from North Korea. This drastic shift underscores the deteriorating state of Russia’s military-industrial complex and the broader implications for its global standing.

In a strikingly ironic twist, the nation that once supplied cutting-edge technology to the world now seeks sustenance from a pariah state infamous for its substandard military equipment. North Korea’s support, including ballistic missiles and munitions, is crucial for Russia as it struggles to maintain its war efforts in Ukraine. The image of a former superpower relying on North Korean arms tells a bleak story about the current state of Russian research and development. It is a clear indicator that Russia is far from the industrial powerhouse that its cheerleaders in the Kremlin claim it to be.

News: Putin Arrives in North Korea as Ukraine War Redefines Ties With Kim

September 22, 2022

This unholy alliance between Russia and North Korea also highlights a disturbing new reality: North Korea has emerged as a significant beneficiary of the Ukraine conflict. Pyongyang’s economy, previously crippled by sanctions and isolation, has found new life through its arms trade with Russia. This partnership has elevated North Korea’s international status, making it no longer the sole pariah state. The shift in power dynamics is stark and troubling.

The desperation behind Putin’s move is palpable. This is the first time in 25 years that a Russian president has visited North Korea, and it is clear that Putin is not doing so out of choice but out of necessity. Russia’s reliance on a nation with an outdated military force and equipment reveals the dire state of its own military capabilities. The fact that Putin must beg for weapons from North Korea suggests that the Russian army is in a desperate situation, willing to take anything it can get.

June 25, 2019

The broader geopolitical implications of this alliance are equally concerning. The axis of Russia, China, North Korea, and Iran is a mashup of nefarious actors with no common cause other than the need to feed off each other. Unlike the more ideologically aligned Western Europe and the US, this grouping is a coalition of convenience rather than principle. Even within this alliance, Russia’s position is precarious. China and India, while maintaining diplomatic relations with Russia, view it as a distraction from their economic ambitions. Putin’s overtures to North Korea can be seen as a last resort after likely rejections from more powerful nations like China and India.

Reflecting on the past, it is evident how far Russia has fallen. Once a major player in the G8, now it is reduced to seeking partnerships with third-world dictatorships. The contrast is stark and disheartening. The likes of North Korea, Russia, and China represent some of the most oppressive police states in the world, making a mockery of any notions of freedom and democracy. If there ever was an open-air prison, these nations fit the bill perfectly.

Hews: Putin arrives in North Korea ahead of talks with Kim Jong-un

May 1, 2018

Putin’s visit to North Korea, hat in hand, begging for arms that his own industry cannot provide, is a clear sign of his desperation. It exposes the toothless tiger that Russia has become under his rule. The international community must recognize this vulnerability and seize the moment to hold Putin accountable. It is time to finish the job and bring Putin to justice at the International Criminal Court.

In summary, Putin’s North Korea visit and the resultant arms deal reflect not just a tactical move but a strategic capitulation. It signals a significant decline in Russia’s global standing and military capability. The world must take note of this desperation and act decisively to prevent further destabilization by this crumbling alliance of authoritarian regimes. (AI)

Friday April 5, 2024

April 5, 2024 by Graeme MacKay

Editorial Cartoon by Graeme MacKay, The Hamilton Spectator – Friday April 5, 2024

The Eclipsing of Democracy: A Celestial and Political Paradox

Ivan Glassco, The Hamilton Spectator

In 1936, Ivan Glassco’s editorial cartoon for the Hamilton Spectator captured a moment of political symbolism: Adolf Hitler, emerging as a dominant force on the world stage, eclipsed Benito Mussolini, representing the ascendancy of authoritarianism over the fading embers of democracy. This visual metaphor, though born in a specific era, carries timeless resonance, echoing the recurrent pattern of strongmen casting their shadow over democratic institutions throughout history.

As we anticipate the forthcoming solar eclipse on April 8, 2024, Glassco’s imagery takes on a renewed poignancy. Just as the moon intermittently obscures the brilliance of the sun, so too have authoritarian rulers intermittently obstructed the light of democracy. The cosmic phenomenon of an eclipse serves as a poignant reminder of the cyclical nature of power dynamics and the transient nature of political dominance.

Poll: Democracy in North America: Significant segments in Canada, U.S. open to authoritarian leadership

March 7, 2024

Consider the accounts of Herodotus, the ancient Greek historian, who chronicled the extraordinary events of 585 BC when a solar eclipse intervened to halt the relentless conflict between the Medes and the Lydians. In the face of the celestial spectacle, warring factions laid down their arms, seized by a shared sense of awe and reverence. Though separated by millennia, the psychological impact of witnessing such cosmic phenomena remains a unifying force, evoking humility and fostering a sense of interconnectedness among humanity.

Recent studies corroborate this notion, suggesting that the experience of witnessing a total solar eclipse can evoke a profound sense of awe, prompting individuals to feel more deeply connected to their communities and to each other. This transient moment of collective wonder stands in stark contrast to the divisive forces that often fracture societies along political lines.

Yet, as we marvel at the celestial ballet unfolding above us, we cannot afford to overlook the troubling parallels evident in our political landscape. The rise of authoritarianism, not only in distant lands but also within the heartlands of North America, poses a grave threat to the principles of democracy. In both Canada and the United States, significant segments of the population express openness to authoritarian leadership, viewing strongman rule as a viable alternative to democratic governance.

Opinion: The Uniquely American Future of US Authoritarianism

July 20, 2021

In the United States, particularly, the Republican Party has veered toward authoritarianism in recent years, embracing extremist rhetoric and undermining democratic norms. From attempts to overturn election results to attacks on the judiciary and the media, the GOP’s flirtation with authoritarianism has cast a shadow over the future of American democracy.

The events of January 6, 2021, when rioters stormed the U.S. Capitol in a brazen attempt to overturn a free and fair election, serve as a stark reminder of the fragility of democratic institutions in the face of authoritarian encroachment. The parallels between the celestial and the political are not merely coincidental. Just as a solar eclipse reminds us of the vastness of the cosmos and our place within it, so too do the rise and fall of authoritarian regimes remind us of the fragility of democracy and the constant struggle to preserve it.

BBC: How the solar eclipse may affect the brain and bring people together

As we gaze up at the darkened sun on April 8, reflect not only on the wonders of the universe but also on the challenges facing our own societies. Draw inspiration from the awe-inspiring spectacle above us to reaffirm our commitment to democracy, to reject the siren call of authoritarianism, and to stand together in defence of freedom and justice for all. As the eclipse passes, so too shall the shadow of tyranny be dispelled by the light of liberty…we can only wish. (AI)