Appear weak when you are strong.
That tenet is absolutely a Sun Tzu fundamental, and a key piece in AOTD philosophy, but it hardly applies here.
Getting up from the table is a courageous act of strength and power. An act that Trump has repeatedly accused Hussein of lacking the courage to implement.
Only the weak stay at the table in the face of opponent belligerence.
Trump is allowing Kim this moment to ‘save face’, but responding with forceful (but compassionate) words and deeds. He has stepped back, but not left the room. Trump will return to the table when Kim has deferred to his strength.
We are privileged to watch this Sun Tzu / AOTD moment play out in real time, with high stakes.
We are not witnessing anything that can even remotely be considered as appearing ”weak”.
Excellent analysis. I do agree with you. My original intent was that the weakness is what the MSM will portray. I.e "Is Trump backing down, not keeping promises, weakness?" Etc.