On August 6, 2025, Apple CEO Tim Cook presented a custom-engraved glass piece set in a 24-karat gold base to U.S. President Donald Trump during a meeting in the Oval Office.
As reported by Politico, the gift, crafted by Corning in Kentucky and designed by a former Marine Corps corporal, reflects Trump’s affinity for opulence. Cook remarked, “It’s 24-karat gold… I’ll take the liberty of setting it up.” Additionally, Cook announced a $100 billion investment in the U.S., addressing Trump’s criticisms regarding Apple’s overseas iPhone manufacturing.
Tim Cook pathetically kisses Trump's ass by pretending him with a "24 karat gold" gift pic.twitter.com/rkPyEhKasG
— Aaron Rupar (@atrupar) August 6, 2025Cook’s gesture is part of a broader trend in which world leaders and influential figures seek Donald Trump’s favour. For example, Cambodian Prime Minister Hun Manet nominated Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize, praising his “visionary diplomacy” in a letter to the Norwegian Nobel Committee. Similarly, Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu and representatives from Pakistan also nominated Trump, with the Nobel announcement scheduled for October 2025.
⚡️🇺🇸🇮🇱BREAKING:
Israeli PM Netanyahu has nominated U.S President Donald Trump for the Nobel Peace Prize. pic.twitter.com/jKMSI9Dads
— Suppressed News. (@SuppressedNws) July 7, 2025Additionally, British Prime Minister Keir Starmer delivered a letter from King Charles III inviting Trump for a royal visit, while FIFA President Gianni Infantino presented him with a Club World Cup trophy. However, the $400 million Boeing 747 for Air Force One, financed by Qatar, stirred controversy, though Trump defended the acceptance of this gift.
Pakistan to nominate Trump for Nobel Peace Prize https://t.co/BeAOtCBUvP
— BBC News (World) (@BBCWorld) June 21, 2025These efforts reflect Trump’s aggressive trade policies, which impose tariffs of 39% on Switzerland, 15% on the EU, 10% on the UK, and 50% on India. Swiss President Karin Keller-Sutter requested tariff reductions, but Trump dismissed her appeal, stating on CNBC, “She didn’t want to listen.” Consequently, these tariffs pressure allies to align with Trump’s agenda, often leveraging extravagant gifts that appeal to his preference for grandeur and recognition.
Read: White House Hails Pakistan’s 2026 Nobel Nod for Trump’s India-Pakistan Peace Role
While the gifts and nominations serve as diplomatic tools, they also raise ethical concerns. For example, Democrats criticised Qatar’s jet as a sign of undue influence. Public opinion remains divided; some praise Trump’s deal-making skills, while others condemn what they see as favouritism. The Nobel nominations highlight Trump’s global influence but face scepticism due to his tariff-heavy approach. In this context, Cook’s gift seeks to mitigate tariff threats, showcasing Apple’s strategic diplomacy.
