President Donald Trump, right, meets with Russian President Vladimir Putin at the G20 Summit in Hamburg, Germany, Friday, July 7, 2017.
Evan Vucci/AP
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Evan Vucci/AP
Just weeks into his second term, President Trump has already caused significant shifts in the global landscape.
This week, American and Russian officials are convening in Saudi Arabia to initiate talks aimed at resolving the conflict in Ukraine – with no representatives from Ukraine present. Trump has proposed a controversial idea of relocating all Palestinians from Gaza to develop the area into luxury properties. Vice President Vance has harshly criticized the U.S.’ European partners for overlooking far-right parties, including Alternative for Germany – a party that includes members who have faced allegations of employing Nazi rhetoric and trivializing the Holocaust.
In the Americas, Trump has threatened to impose tariffs on neighboring countries, Mexico and Canada, despite their reliance on shared trade networks. He has stopped funding for foreign aid and support for global democratic initiatives.
According to Richard Haass, president emeritus of the Council on Foreign Relations, these developments are leading to a diminishing role for the United States on the world stage, as stated in an interview with Morning Edition.
Haass shared four key observations regarding the new international order emerging under Trump.
Trump acts as if the U.S. possesses “exclusive rights”
Haass commented that while the past global order was not without flaws, it was built on established rules. Nations acknowledged each other’s sovereignty and refrained from forcefully acquiring territory. There were guidelines related to trade, investment, and human rights.
Despite the Trump administration being relatively new, “We’re witnessing a shift where major powers, including the United States, adopt the position of having special rights … to determine the fates of others. They possess the capability, at times, to seize what they desire.”
The U.S. is clearly exercising this approach in the Western Hemisphere, especially concerning the Panama Canal, Canada, Mexico, and Greenland, Haass noted. Trump also appears prepared to allow Russia more leeway in Europe.
“While there’s no definitive indication regarding China’s role in the Asia-Pacific, we are certainly veering away from a framework where the United States collaborates with its allies—partners that have worked together for 75 to 80 years on various organizations and principles to steer international relations,” Haass remarked.
Value the advantages of the previous global order
Haass highlighted that due to the post-World War II framework, the planet has evaded conflicts between major powers for 80 years. He elaborated that “The Cold War remained cold, concluding peacefully and in a manner aligned with American interests and values.”
The U.S. has prospered along with many other nations, Haass added. “People globally live longer. More individuals enjoy freedoms and democratic governance than at any point in history,” he reflected. “So, despite its imperfections, this world isn’t all bad.”
Even amidst the conflict in Ukraine, although Russian actions contravene established norms, Haass stated, “the Russians haven’t achieved their objectives.” Ukraine continues to govern roughly 80% of its land and remains a functioning nation-state.
Avoid alienating U.S. allies
In comparison to Russia and China, the U.S. holds a significant advantage due to “the extensive network of allies ready to collaborate with us on various pressing global challenges,” Haass remarked.
However, the Trump administration does not treat allies as esteemed partners, he noted.
“They are regarded as just another set of countries, often receiving less consideration than others because of their economic ties to us,” Haass continued. “We possess more leverage to impose sanctions on them.”
Anticipate a decline in U.S. influence
Haass warned that due to the alienation of allies, the U.S. risks diminishing influence and potentially increasing disorder. Some allies may begin to diversify their strategies rather than being reliant on the U.S.
“Some may choose to acquire their own nuclear capabilities, or simply ignore directives from Washington, which has become increasingly unpredictable and self-serving,” Haass stated. “We are heading toward a world that is significantly less centered on American interests.”
