<p>This paper examines the classification of dominant roles and cultures of anarchy in Alexander Wendt’s framework by integrating his theoretical insights with the International Relations (IR) literature on “thick” friendship. It addresses the theoretical question of whether there are indeed only three dominant roles and three corresponding cultures of anarchy, arguing that Wendt’s existing typology is not exhaustive and proposing the addition of a fourth ideal type—the Benthamite culture of anarchy, characterized by the dominant role of the partner. The paper applies the identified tendencies and features of this newly conceptualized role and culture to a case study of transatlantic relations during the first term of US President Donald Trump. It demonstrates that these relations were neither fully friendly (Kantian) nor genuinely rivalrous (Lockean), but rather exemplified a contested partnership occupying a middle ground.</p>