This international leader subscribes to the foreign policy approach of realism. Realism is a perspective that emphasizes the role of power and national interest in international relations. Realists believe that states are motivated by their own self-interest and will act in their own best interests, regardless of their relationships with other countries. They also believe that international relations are characterized by conflict and competition and that cooperation between states is limited by their differences in power and resources.
In the context of this scenario, the international leader's belief that his country and the smaller neighboring country are not equal is consistent with a realist perspective. By considering his own country as superior and prioritizing its interests over those of the smaller neighboring country, the leader is acting in accordance with the principles of realism.