WASHINGTON—Representative Eliot L. Engel, Ranking Member of the House Committee on Foreign Affairs, today made the following statement on reports of the President’s recent calls with world leaders:

“Reports over the last day of the President's calls with certain foreign leaders are worrying. World leaders—particularly in allied countries—aren't the President's staff or contestants on his TV show, and he shouldn't treat them that way. We rely on our ties with other countries to enhance security around the world and advance the interests of the United States and our partners.

“Diplomacy is a complex and fraught business. There's no room for oversized egos, and bullies tend to isolate themselves on the global stage. Rather than abruptly pushing away America’s closest friends and allies, the President should avail himself of our diplomats’ expertise to cultivate key relationships and strengthen our alliances. Two weeks of relying on political advisors who have no foreign policy background is already undercutting American interests and undermining American alliances.  I urge the President to reverse course before we have no allies left.”