President Donald Trump has returned to the White House, promising to reverse many of President Biden’s policies and abandon major international agreements. This shift has created uncertainty among global partners, as they try to understand their place in the new order.
Trump’s approach isn’t unexpected since he’s starting his second term. However, its implications for global politics remain uncertain. Countries around the world are keenly watching how the next four years will unfold.
In Washington, Trump wasted no time. On his first day back, he signed a series of executive orders, which included designating Mexican cartels as foreign terrorist organizations. This rapid pace signals a bold agenda ahead.
Trump’s international relationships are already taking shape:
- Italy’s Giorgia Meloni: The Italian Prime Minister met with Trump recently and attended his inauguration. Meloni supports Trump’s international stance, including NATO’s defense spending.
- Hungary’s Viktor Orban: A longtime ally, Orban praised Trump’s return as an opportunity to challenge what he sees as a leftist agenda in Brussels.
- Argentina’s Javier Milei: The new Argentinian leader seeks stronger ties with the U.S., even considering leaving trade groups for better deals.
Trump’s influence extends to global figures such as:
- India’s Narendra Modi: Modi is looking to secure a trade deal with the U.S. as he reassesses India’s reliance on China.
- Israel’s Benjamin Netanyahu: Netanyahu congratulated Trump and emphasized the strong U.S.-Israel alliance, hinting at more collaboration.
However, not all relationships are smooth. UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer, critical of Trump, faces challenges in maintaining the traditionally strong U.S.-UK bond. He previously accused the UK’s Conservative Party of emulating Trump’s divisive style.
Over in Europe, leaders have varied reactions. Emmanuel Macron of France warns about increasing tariffs, calling for a European response. Meanwhile, Germany’s Chancellor Olaf Scholz acknowledges Trump’s return as a challenge but vows to stand united with European partners.
Furthermore, the European Union is poised for complex negotiations. Despite Trump’s disparagement of the EU, Ursula von der Leyen, President of the European Commission, emphasizes cooperation while maintaining European principles.
In Canada, the situation is tense after Prime Minister Justin Trudeau’s resignation amidst turmoil related to his relationship with Trump. The incoming government may need to navigate a potential trade war with the U.S., especially after Trump’s threats of significant tariffs on Canadian imports.
As Trump embarks on his new term, the world watches closely, gauging the impact of his decisions on international relations and global stability.