Donald Trump has presented himself as a peacemaker, prioritizing conflict resolution in key global hotspots
Tejeswar Patnaik
Donald Trump was sworn in as the 60th President of the United States on the 20th of this month. In his inaugural address, he emphasized his vision for ushering in a ‘golden age of America.’ Unapologetically advocating an ‘America First’ policy, Trump pledged to restore the nation’s pride, prosperity, and global image as a strong and independent power. Analysts of American politics predict that Trump’s second term will be markedly different from his first, characterized by bold and decisive actions.
Domestic Policy
In his address, Trump outlined key domestic priorities, focusing on correcting the Biden administration’s perceived shortcomings. He highlighted unemployment, inflation, and national security as top concerns, promising to create a nation that is ‘proud, prosperous, and free.’
On his first day in office, Trump signed 100 executive orders, including one declaring a national emergency at the southern border. This move aims to curb illegal immigration by deploying troops to secure the border. Currently, approximately 11 million illegal immigrants reside in the U.S., and the administration plans to deport 1 million immigrants annually.
The administration is also prioritizing a reduction in legal immigration. Among the measures proposed is the revocation of automatic birthright citizenship for children born in the U.S. to non-citizen parents. Additionally, the annual quota for H1B visas is set to be reduced, to encourage American companies to hire native citizens.
While the administration believes these policies will bolster local employment, critics argue that reducing H1B visas could hinder American companies from accessing global talent. With a demand for 400,000 skilled workers annually, businesses that rely on foreign expertise, particularly from countries like India and China, may face significant challenges. Such policies could also disrupt America’s multicultural ecosystem. In addition to immigration reform, Trump has promised to address healthcare costs and infrastructure.
Foreign Policy
Trump’s foreign policy agenda reflects his ‘America First’ philosophy. One of his boldest moves is withdrawing the U.S. from the World Health Organization (WHO), a decision that could severely impact the agency’s budget and global health initiatives, given that the U.S. is its largest donor.
Similarly, Trump has signed an executive order to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Climate Accord, a move likely to have serious consequences for global efforts to combat climate change. He has, however, reiterated his administration’s commitment to fostering energy independence, announcing a focus on expanding domestic oil and gas production.
On trade, Trump has issued a stern warning to BRICS nations, including India, threatening a 100% tariff on imports unless they agree to balance trade on a reciprocal basis. This protectionist stance could strain relations with key trade partners and disrupt the global supply chain, potentially affecting American consumers.
In contrast, Trump has vowed to strengthen ties with traditional allies like Israel, the United Kingdom, and Japan. His administration plans to explore new trade agreements with these nations, emphasizing fair trade and mutual benefit.
Global Diplomacy
Trump has presented himself as a peacemaker, prioritizing conflict resolution in key global hotspots. His administration plans to work toward an immediate ceasefire in the Gaza Strip and the restoration of peace in the Middle East. Regarding the prolonged Ukraine-Russia war, Trump aims to bring both President Zelenskyy and President Putin to the negotiating table.
However, some political analysts are skeptical about whether Trump’s administration will maintain financial and military aid to the European Union, particularly for ongoing conflicts. The potential for reduced U.S. involvement in NATO could also shift the balance of power in Europe, prompting concerns among allies.
Many of Trump’s executive orders cater to his MAGA (Make America Great Again) base, projecting a tough stance on immigration, trade, and national security. However, several of these orders are expected to face legal challenges, potentially delaying their implementation.
US-India Relations
The U.S. and India must make their bilateral ties irreversible, but Trump’s tendency to turn on allies means New Delhi faces a tough balancing act ahead. The U.S. is India’s largest trading partner. Over the years, the two countries have cooperated in critical areas of technology and innovation, including agriculture, blockchain, clean energy, cybersecurity, telecommunications, healthcare, and space exploration.
India was granted Tier 1 status by the U.S., which grants license-free access to a wide range of technologies regulated by the Department of Trade and Commerce. However, Trump’s push for trade reciprocity, coupled with his threats of higher tariffs, could challenge the smooth progress of this partnership. As India navigates these challenges, it must seek to leverage its growing strategic importance in the Indo-Pacific region to strengthen ties with the U.S.
Donald Trump’s oath-taking address signaled a bold and ambitious vision for the United States. He promised to restore America’s greatness, emphasizing national security, trade, energy independence, and space exploration. His domestic policies reflect a focus on protecting American jobs and reducing immigration, while his foreign agenda centers on asserting U.S. power on the global stage.
As Trump assumes his presidency, the world is going to witness how effectively he delivers on his promises. His policy decisions will not only shape America’s future but also have significant implications for the global order. Only time will reveal the true impact of his administration’s actions.
(The writer is a former Dy General Manager of Bank of India. Views expressed are personal.)
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