It’s more looked like lavishing praise on their leader than allying himself with the country. There are some representative quotes here
https://www.belfercenter.org/programs/thucydidess-trap/repre...
https://www.belfercenter.org/programs/thucydidess-trap/repre...
> He controls 1.4 billion people with an iron fist. He’s a brilliant guy whether you like it or not.
> He’s now president for life. President for life. No, he’s great. And look, he was able to do that. I think it’s great. Maybe we’ll have to give that a shot some day.
Best of luck, America!
But considering Trump is an uncontrollable toddler, I guess he knows that's a title he can never keep..