Donald Trump and Global Politics

Overview

• Donald Trump is causing significant shifts in global politics.
• Confusion surrounds his actions and their implications.
• His second term marks a departure from traditional US foreign policy.

The Rules-Based International Order

• Established post-World War II to promote peace, stability, cooperation.
• Key institutions: United Nations, International Monetary Fund, World Bank.
• Aimed at preventing another global conflict.

US Dominance in the Global Order

• US has been the dominant force in the international rules-based system.
• This order helped the US become a key economic power.
• Challenges have emerged from nations like China and India.

Rise of Alternative Powers

• Calls for reform in international institutions to reflect new global dynamics.
• US’s role in the order questioned even before Trump.

Trump's Foreign Policy

• Trump’s approach differs significantly from past US administrations.
• Lacks a grand strategy; often unpredictable and transactional.
• Known for his "America First" policy.

Key Themes in Trump’s Foreign Policy

1. Transactional Approach

   • Sees international relations like business deals.
   • Example: Demands for NATO members to increase defense spending.

2. America First

   • Focus on American interests.
   • Criticizes global trade rules; uses tariffs to influence trade.

3. Abandonment of Global Leadership

   • Moved away from defending Western values globally.
   • Paused foreign aid, questioned support for Ukraine.

4. Power Politics

   • Utilizes US power to achieve goals, often coercively.
   • Prefers bilateral over multilateral engagement.

Impact of Trump’s Policies

• Alters US relationships with Western allies.
• Allies are adjusting to diminished US reliability.
• Debate persists on whether Trump has fundamentally changed the world order or merely revealed existing dynamics.

Conclusion

• Trump’s presidency has shaken global relationships and challenged long-standing norms.
• The international community is adapting to the evolving geopolitical landscape.