ZUGZWANG: The genius of trump's address on national security Zugzwang: a situation in which the obligation to make a move in one's turn is a serious, often decisive, disadvantage. Trump has done what's called a "non move" move (common predicament in the end game for higher rated chess players). This forces the opponent into a lose lose situation, usually, and can oftentimes be the exact mistake that, if not taken advantage of, loses the game for either player.  Trump just showed the world that he recognizes the situation as it is and that he is allowing his opponent to lose the game on their own turn. This is the beauty and elegance of our master and commander in chief. love this dude Chess puzzle that demonstrates this concept well. https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=wgdVYHdoYhA