Donald Trump’s presidency has been marked by a bold and unconventional approach to foreign policy. From his «America First» mantra to his use of tariffs as a negotiating tool, his administration has brought significant changes to the United States’ global interactions. As he nears the end of his second term, it’s valuable to examine the key differences in Trump’s foreign policy during his first and second terms in office.
One of the most significant shifts in Trump’s foreign policy in his second term has been a more assertive stance towards China. During his first term, Trump focused on economic issues with China, imposing tariffs and engaging in trade negotiations. However, in his second term, he has taken a more confrontational approach, particularly in response to China’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and its actions in Hong Kong and the South China Sea.
In May 2020, Trump announced his intention to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), stating that the organization had failed to hold China accountable for the pandemic. He has also signed legislation sanctioning Chinese officials involved in human rights abuses in Hong Kong and imposed travel restrictions on some Chinese Communist Party members. Furthermore, the Trump administration has stepped up its military presence in the South China Sea, conducting freedom of navigation operations and sending aircraft carriers to the region.
This tougher stance towards China has been accompanied by a strengthening of relationships with other Asian allies, such as Japan and India, who share concerns about Chinese assertiveness. Trump has also pursued closer ties with Taiwan, a self-governing democracy that China considers a breakaway province. In 2019, Trump signed the Taiwan Travel Act, encouraging high-level visits between the United States and Taiwan. These actions demonstrate a departure from the previous U.S. policy of ambiguity towards Taiwan’s status.
Another significant difference in Trump’s foreign policy has been a renewed focus on the Middle East. During his first term, Trump’s attention was largely focused on North Korea and Iran, with little mention of the Middle East. However, in his second term, he has shifted his attention to the region, particularly in regards to Israel.
In 2019, the Trump administration recognized Israel’s sovereignty over the Golan Heights, and in 2020, Trump unveiled his peace plan for Israel and Palestine. While the plan has been met with mixed reactions, it marks a significant departure from the traditional U.S. approach to the conflict. Trump has also brokered peace deals between Israel and several Arab nations, including the United Arab Emirates and Bahrain, in what is known as the «Abraham Accords.» These developments have significantly altered the dynamics in the Middle East and have been praised by many as a significant step towards peace in the region.
However, Trump’s approach to Iran has remained a source of controversy. In 2018, he withdrew the United States from the Iran nuclear deal, which aimed to limit Iran’s nuclear capabilities in exchange for sanctions relief. This move was met with international criticism, and tensions between the two nations have escalated, with the Trump administration imposing harsh sanctions on Iran and carrying out targeted military strikes.
The final major difference in Trump’s foreign policy has been his approach to international agreements and organizations. In his first term, he withdrew the United States from several international agreements, including the Paris Climate Agreement and the Trans-Pacific Partnership. He also reduced the U.S. contribution to the United Nations and other international organizations. However, in his second term, Trump has shown a willingness to re-engage with international organizations, particularly in regards to the pandemic.
Under Trump’s leadership, the United States has worked closely with allies to develop and distribute a COVID-19 vaccine through COVAX, a global initiative to ensure equitable access to vaccines. The U.S. also rejoined the World Health Organization and has provided significant financial and technical support to countries struggling with the pandemic. These actions demonstrate a shift towards a more cooperative and multilateral approach to global issues.
In conclusion, Trump’s foreign policy in his first and second terms has seen significant changes in his approach to China, the Middle East, and international agreements. From a more assertive stance towards China to renewed focus on the Middle East and shifting attitudes towards international organizations, Trump has left a distinct mark on American foreign policy. Regardless of one’s political opinions, it is undeniable that his policies have had a significant impact on the United States’ role in the world. As the country prepares for a new administration, it will be interesting to
