Trump's First 100 Days: Redefining US Foreign Policy

Thursday, May 1, 2025 3:45 pm ET1min read

US President Donald Trump has passed 100 days in his second term, reshaping the US relationship with the world. He has focused on strengthening ties with allies, particularly in Asia, while also pursuing a more aggressive foreign policy, including withdrawing from international agreements and increasing tensions with adversaries. His presidency has been marked by controversy and polarization, both domestically and internationally.

US President Donald Trump has completed his first 100 days in his second term, marking a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy. His administration has focused on strengthening ties with allies in Asia, while also pursuing a more aggressive stance against adversaries. This period has been marked by controversy and polarization, both domestically and internationally.

Trump's foreign policy doctrine, described as "transactionalism" by political scientists, centers on replacing a values-driven approach with one grounded in immediate gains. His strategy is to threaten first and negotiate second, aiming for "quick wins." This approach has been evident in his handling of the Russia-Ukraine conflict, where he has embraced peace talks with Russian President Vladimir Putin while advocating for a minerals deal with Ukraine [1].

Trump's administration has also sparked concerns regarding NATO's financial contributions, with leaked messages indicating a desire to reduce U.S. financial support for European allies. This stance has forced Europe to recognize the need for increased self-defense capabilities, potentially leading to a reduction in U.S. influence in the region [1].

In the Middle East, Trump has pushed for ceasefire negotiations between Israel and Hamas, and has even suggested that the U.S. take over the Gaza Strip. While this approach may deliver short-term successes, it risks prolonging the conflict due to a lack of engagement with the root causes of the Palestinian-Israeli dispute [1].

Moreover, Trump's presidency has been marked by increased tensions with allies, including Canada. He has floated the idea of making Canada the 51st U.S. state and has engaged in a trade war with new tariffs, causing concern among Canadians about their sovereignty and economic dependence on the U.S. [1].

Trump's foreign policy has also included a quest to take over Greenland, citing national and international security concerns. However, this move has been met with strong opposition from Greenland and Denmark, who reject the idea of being part of the U.S. [1].

In summary, Trump's second term has seen a significant shift in U.S. foreign policy, characterized by a more aggressive stance against adversaries and a focus on immediate gains. This approach has sparked controversy and polarization both domestically and internationally, with implications for U.S. influence and relationships with allies.

References:
[1] https://www.newsweek.com/donald-trump-foreign-policy-100-days-2064942

Trump's First 100 Days: Redefining US Foreign Policy

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