Donald Trump’s tumultuous political maneuvers seem never-ending. Despite efforts to calm his disruptive behavior, such as offering him state visits, his recent aggressive stance towards Volodymyr Zelenskyy and the suspension of aid to Ukraine underline that these efforts, even the promise of a stay at Balmoral, have fallen short.
Yet, there’s a silver lining in the recent weeks under Trump. It might just prompt a more grounded understanding of what his potential re-election could mean, and shine a light on America’s historical global policy. Characters like Trump, JD Vance, and Elon Musk serve as the most overt representations of the United States’ heavy-handed approach to global affairs—an approach it’s wielded for at least a century.
Back in 1992, Noam Chomsky published “What Uncle Sam Really Wants,” a best-selling analysis that’s worth revisiting. It could provide some much-needed clarity to Labour’s policymakers, who often seem naïve, especially with their constant references to the “special relationship” between the UK and the US.
Trump’s “America First” rhetoric isn’t new; it’s just a brazen expression of America’s long-standing international role since World War II. For decades, the US has unapologetically engaged with and sometimes propped up authoritarian regimes, akin to its recent dealings with Vladimir Putin. The division of Ukraine’s resources with Putin’s cooperation isn’t a far cry from how the US has historically exerted its influence in Latin America and Africa.
European leaders and commentators are startled, perhaps because this marks the first time since Franklin D. Roosevelt teamed up with Stalin at Yalta in 1945 that a US president’s actions have echoed so loudly on European soil, and this time, without a Churchill to partake in the subsequent photo op.
Our leaders may continue to cling to the notion of a “special relationship,” trying to diplomatically navigate around the US while seeking any concessions from Trump. However, they must recognize that this is merely buying time, and ensure it’s time spent wisely.
In the immediate term, European leaders must play a crucial role in preventing Trump and Putin from imposing peace against Ukraine’s desires. It’s vital to confront the domineering tactics of Trump and Vance to ensure that Europe and Zelenskyy secure a seat at the negotiation table, safeguarding Ukraine’s interests and working toward a stable peace.
During an orchestrated Oval Office meeting last Friday, Trump told Zelenskyy he held no bargaining power. While this might play to Trump’s base, Vance and others understand that images of Russian tanks entering Kyiv due to US aid withdrawal would draw as much criticism as Biden’s Afghanistan withdrawal did. Such an outcome might even fragment the Trump loyalists Vance would need in future elections.
Long-term, Trump’s recent behavior, highlighted in his error-laden, boastful speech to Congress, is pushing European and global south nations to consider alternatives to US-centric politics and economics. There’s an opening for a more forward-thinking “coalition of the willing,” where Europe and the global south unite to cultivate alliances and institutions independent of US influence.
This vision includes fostering economic cooperation free from tariffs and protectionist policies, aiming for mutual benefits while tackling severe global inequalities and environmental challenges.
The US’s aggressive stance, marked by aid cuts and steep tariffs, is isolating it from many nations. This situation presents a massive diplomatic window for Keir Starmer’s government. Some see it as a golden opportunity for the Prime Minister to seal his legacy.
Instead of cutting British overseas aid and losing soft power, this could be a defining moment for our leadership. By rallying global partners to counter the detrimental impacts of Trump and China’s policies, our prime minister could secure a truly historic legacy.
