Dictator's changed course, seeking diplomacy (4)
I believe the answer is:
tact
'diplomacy' is the definition.
(tact can mean diplomacy or sensitivity)
'dictator's changed course' is the wordplay.
'dictator's' shows a homophone (sound like) (as somebody dictating would pronounce the word).
'changed course' becomes 'tacked' (as in changing tack).
'tacked' is a homophone of 'TACT'.
'seeking' is the link.
(Other definitions for tact that I've seen before include "Understanding" , "Diplomacy or discretion" , "Diplomatic sensitivity" , "Consideration and sensitivity" , "Sensitivity (in dealing with others)" .)