The Divorce of Nations

Today, we find ourselves in arguably the most dangerous geopolitical situations of modern time. Outlining key moments over the last quarter century, this vital book represents the personal testimony of one of the worlds foremost diplomats. His experiences enable us to trace of how countries and indeed the world have been sleepwalking towards The Divorce of Nations and the steps we can take to fix it. Joo Vale de Almeida has met every consequential leader in the world during the time since the turn of the new millennium. His insightful account features the issues and personal observances of figures such as Barack Obama, George W Bush, Boris Johnson, Angela Merkel, Nicolas Sarkozy, and Donald Trump. He also recalls the fifteen times he met Vladamir Putin and the early warning signs and grievances Putin aired in the run up to the invasion of Georgia in 2008, which was the precursor to the annexation of Ukrainian territory in 2014 and eventually the full invasion in 2022. Other key moments include the global response to the Great Financial Crisis, how the world shifted in the aftermath of 9/11 and the impact of China joining the World Trade Organisation the same year. As the first ever EU Ambassador to the UK, Joo details a vivid and unique account of the first 1,000 days of Brexit, the ultimate act of divorce so far. Neither an academic essay nor a complete set of career memoirs, The Divorce of Nations presents a personal view of global events, projecting them into the current international context, and of the main actors involved. Based on contemporary notes and further reflections, it contributes to our understanding of a highly charged and eventful period. As we progress further into the 21st century, this necessary and important book enables us to move forward with better awareness and understanding of the volatile and fragmented global scene in which we find ourselves.