Question: what role does the president play in foreign affairs?
Answer: negotiates treaties with foreign nations

Subject to the advice and consent role of the U.S. Senate , the President of the United States negotiates treaties with foreign nations , but treaties enter into force if ratified by two - thirds of the Senate . The President is also Commander in Chief of the United States Armed Forces , and as such has broad authority over the armed forces . Both the Secretary of State and ambassadors are appointed by the President , with the advice and consent of the Senate . The United States Secretary of State acts similarly to a foreign minister and under Executive leadership is the primary conductor of state - to - state diplomacy .