From abandoning NATO to ending Russia’s war in Ukraine in 24 hours, President-Elect Donald Trump has made broad claims on what he will do to shake up the international community. Trump has fraternized with world leaders such as Russia’s Vladimir Putin and North Korea’s Kim Jong Un, and his presidency could open pathways for new forms of diplomacy with both countries. Trump’s plan to end the war in Ukraine is vague, and he has indicated a desire to reduce American support for Ukraine, as well as a withdrawal from NATO. Even though a complete withdrawal is unlikely, it would significantly weaken the alliance and give Russia more power in the region. Trump is vocal in his support for Israel and has criticized the Biden Administration’s approach to ending the war in Gaza, even though he does not have a specific plan himself.
During his first term, Trump took a protectionist stance on foreign trade and the economy. Looking towards his second term, he has proposed tariffs from 10 percent to 20 percent on all foreign goods and is suspicious of allies he believes are taking advantage of what he perceives as America’s weak stance on foreign trade. Trump promises he will bring jobs and production back to America and plans to use a mixture of incentives and punishments to push businesses to cooperate.
