Trump’s Politics: Media, Immigration, and Global Tensions

The election of Donald Trump as President not only altered the course of American politics but also sparked significant debates in global relations. His bold and unconventional approach, coupled with his firm stances on various issues and unique decision-making style, has left nations worldwide both surprised and unsettled. During his presidency, actions such as proposing to purchase Greenland, issuing stern statements about Panama Canal and Canada, having plans to resolve the Gaza conflict rejected by Egypt and Jordan, and the shift in media dominance from CNN to Fox News have all left a profound impact on global politics.

In a brief 20-minute conversation with journalists, President Trump confirmed the dismissal of several independent watchdogs from federal agencies in late-night actions. This move weakened the principle of checks and balances in the American political system. Furthermore, he stated that the United States would annex Greenland as part of its territory, highlighting his ambitions in global geopolitics. Trump also demanded that Egypt and Jordan accommodate more Palestinian refugees, seemingly reflecting a desire to integrate all of Palestine into Israel. This stance exacerbated tensions in the Middle East and complicated America’s relations with Muslim-majority nations.

Trump’s bold demeanour and unconventional political style marked a distinctive chapter in American history. His tenure caused turmoil in global politics, reshaping both domestic and international relationships. However, the long-term consequences of his policies remain to be seen. Will his presidency strengthen the United States as a sovereign and powerful nation, or will it undermine America’s role on the global stage? Only time will tell.

One key question is whether Trump’s current aggressive policies will force China into silent retreat or if threats from North Korea will resurface, compelling Trump to step back. Will China, in response to U.S. challenges, sign new agreements with Pakistan under the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) and expand its influence in surrounding regions with support from Iran, Afghanistan, and Russia?

Political analysts worldwide are attempting to understand whether Trump’s presidency will strengthen or weaken America. Will his actions extinguish the flames of ongoing conflicts across the world, or will they pour fuel on the fire to fulfill his objectives? Over 35 countries have witnessed U.S. aggression during his tenure, leading to global criticism. Will lessons be learned from these controversies, or will America’s powerful lobby ensure the continuation of Trump’s policies without deviation? These are the questions explored in this analysis.

Trump’s vision of steering the world according to his will is evident in his policies, statements, and global interactions. However, the world operates on a complex, multidimensional system where global institutions, regional alliances, and public opinion play key roles alongside powerful nations. Trump’s desire to enhance America’s strength and impose his will on world affairs through his domestic and foreign policies faces significant hurdles, including global backlash, domestic resistance, and the realities of the international system.

His policies, such as imposing travel bans on Muslim-majority nations, tightening sanctions on Iran, and straining relations with allied countries, have collectively limited America’s influence in various regions. Powerful countries like China and Russia are stepping in to fill the vacuum left by the U.S. These developments indicate that implementing Trump’s policies in their entirety within the American political system is far from certain. Factors like Congress, the judiciary, and public pressure act as checks on his authority.

Running the world requires not just power but cooperation, trust, and justice. Trump’s actions, such as unilateral support for Israel on the Palestine issue and pressuring allies financially, go against these principles. This article delves into these topics in detail to assess whether Trump’s presidency will ultimately strengthen or weaken the United States.

During his campaign, Trump promised policies that prioritized the preferences of the American public. His slogan, “America First,” resonated with many, suggesting a focus on national interests while distancing America from global entanglements. However, his actions and statements have painted a different picture.

Trump’s proposal to purchase Greenland was an unconventional and unexpected move that attracted global astonishment and ridicule. However, it also shed light on America’s geographical and economic strategy. Greenland, rich in natural resources, holds strategic significance as a defensive bulwark against the influence of China and Russia. Despite this, Denmark and Greenland’s authorities firmly rejected the offer, leaving Trump visibly disappointed.

In an article in the Financial Times, British journalist Richard Milne highlighted the sensitivity of this matter and cautioned about the implications of Trump’s policies. He reported that Trump had a 45-minute phone call with Danish Prime Minister Mette Frederiksen, which five senior European officials, past and present, described as fiery and confrontational. The officials indicated that Denmark’s government was in “crisis mode” after Trump refused to rule out military action to acquire the NATO ally’s territory and threatened targeted tariffs in retaliation. The United States already has a military base in northern Greenland, underscoring the island’s strategic importance.

The European Response to Trump’s Threats
In his article, the author writes further: European countries are trying to respond to Trump’s threats against Denmark without putting themselves directly in his crosshairs. Some have urged Frederiksen to “fight” the American President. So far, the Danish Prime Minister has insisted that Greenland is not for sale, though she has welcomed America’s growing interest in the Arctic.

Greenland, the Panama Canal, and Canada in Trump’s Policies
I have previously written in detail about Trump’s statements and the responses surrounding Greenland, the Panama Canal, and Canada. Trump’s remarks on the Panama Canal, a vital route for global trade, reflect his views on maintaining American dominance in the global trading system. His tough statements about Canada and demands for renegotiating trade agreements strained relations with America’s northern neighbour, showcasing a president willing to prioritise America’s economic interests at any cost, even if it means souring relations with long-standing allies.

Impact on the Islamic World and Middle East
During his electoral campaign, the Trump administration made it clear through open support for Israel that they intended to continue previous policies. This was evident in recognising Jerusalem as Israel’s capital and relocating the US embassy there. Now, the proposal to “cleanse” Gaza has sparked further conflicts in the Middle East. Key Arab countries such as Egypt and Jordan rejected this plan, seeing it as a blatant disregard for Palestinian rights. These responses have raised significant questions about Trump’s Middle East policies.

Trump demanded Egypt and Jordan accept more Palestinian refugees, ostensibly indicating a desire to annex Palestine into Israel’s map. This position threatens Palestinian rights and risks further conflicts in the region, potentially worsening US relations with Arab and other Muslim countries. Additional travel bans on citizens of Muslim-majority countries have severely damaged America’s relationships with these nations, isolating the Muslim community within the United States and drawing severe criticism from human rights organisations.

The Saudi Connection and Economic Leverage
In a speech at the World Economic Forum, Trump demanded Saudi Arabia invest at least $1 trillion in the United States and purchase $450 billion worth of American products. While this move economically strengthened US-Saudi relations, it also demonstrated that the Trump administration does not shy away from financially pressuring its allies. Such policies may benefit the US economy in the short term but risk damaging long-term relations with its allies.
Trump’s Stand on Russia and Trade Tariffs

Trump threatened to increase tariffs on Russian goods to pressure Russia into negotiating a ceasefire in Ukraine. While this tactic sought to increase pressure on Russia, it further complicated US trade relations. The Russian government rejected the threat, accusing the United States of endangering global peace through unilateral decisions.

South Asia and China’s Influence
To counter China’s influence in South Asia, the Trump administration hinted at activating the Quad Alliance, giving India a pivotal role in countering China’s economic and military power. This strengthened US-India ties but deepened trade wars and disputes with China, impacting the region’s balance of power. The Modi government, seeking regional dominance, aligned with American ambitions and utilised its stance against the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC) to back proxy terrorism in Pakistan.

India, however, faced significant losses, including skirmishes with Chinese forces in Ladakh. Indian Defence Minister Rajnath Singh admitted in Parliament that China had occupied 36,000 square miles of Ladakh, even constructing permanent concrete bunkers there. Recently, China announced the establishment of two new counties in the region, further cementing its control. Analysts believe India’s outcry reflects its frustration at the setbacks to its regional ambitions. Meanwhile, India continues its illegal occupation of Kashmir but now finds itself on the receiving end of territorial losses to China.

US-China Trade Wars and Strategic Responses
The Trump administration increased tariffs on Chinese products to exert economic pressure, but the question remains whether China will yield to this pressure or retaliate. China’s economy is diverse and resilient, and through initiatives like the Belt and Road Initiative, it has established influence across multiple regions. In response to US tariffs, China could impose restrictions on American goods, form new trade agreements with other nations, or retaliate by targeting American farmers and industries, as it has done in the past. Such measures could strain the US economy and negatively impact Trump’s voter base.

China’s Strategic Moves and Global Impact
In recent years, China has made significant efforts to strengthen its currency, the Yuan. By promoting the use of Yuan instead of the US dollar in trade with other countries, China is challenging the American financial system. For instance, it purchases 40% of its oil needs from Iran and makes payments in Yuan. Similarly, China is engaged in building more than a dozen major projects in Saudi Arabia. According to Mohammed Al-Ajlan, Chairman of the Saudi-Chinese Business Council, in an interview with Al-Akhbariya, “Trade between the two countries has reached $120 billion, and there is expected to be a significant increase in Chinese investments in the Kingdom.”

China might also leverage North Korea to exert pressure on the United States. If North Korea resumes nuclear weapons testing, it could lead to a significant diplomatic defeat for the Trump administration.

Media Relations During Trump’s Presidency
Media relations were a crucial aspect of Donald Trump’s presidency. His conflicts with outlets like CNN and other liberal media channels sparked debates about press freedom. Trump’s preference for Fox News and his reliance on it to communicate his policies reflected his intent to craft and control his desired narrative. It’s well known who controls Fox News, and this connection became a key element of Trump’s media strategy.

Immigration Policies Under Trump
Trump’s tenure saw stringent changes to immigration policies. The construction of a wall along the Mexican border, travel bans on citizens of Muslim-majority countries, and harsh measures against illegal immigrants drew criticism from international human rights organisations. These policies embodied his “America First” slogan but weakened America’s image as a multicultural nation.

It’s worth noting the mastermind behind these strict immigration policies: Stephen Miller, a senior adviser during Trump’s administration. Miller played a pivotal role in shaping immigration policies that aimed to curb both illegal and legal immigration. These included the infamous travel bans on Muslim-majority countries, tightening asylum laws, and ending birthright citizenship.

Miller’s hard-line stance was rooted in his belief that immigration posed a threat to American culture, economy, and security. Ironically, he himself was a descendant of Russian-Jewish immigrants. While these policies were framed as necessary to safeguard American interests, critics labelled them as discriminatory and racist.

Birthright citizenship, guaranteed under the 14th Amendment, allows anyone born in the US to automatically acquire citizenship. However, Trump, with Miller’s backing, sought to abolish this through an executive order. Legal experts argued that such a change required Congressional approval or Supreme Court intervention. While Trump threatened to challenge this legally, the practical implementation remained unlikely.

Miller’s policies not only highlighted divisions within US politics regarding immigration but also drew attention to broader issues of human rights, constitutional principles, and social equity.

Foreign Policy and Broken Promises
During his election campaign, Trump promised to avoid new wars and withdraw from ongoing conflicts. However, his foreign policy contradicted these promises. The tensions with Iran, the chaotic withdrawal from Afghanistan, and continued US involvement in Syria raised questions about the sincerity of these pledges.

Trump’s infamous use of the “Mother of All Bombs” in Afghanistan during his first term was a brutal demonstration of power, yet he ultimately had to concede to Taliban terms in Doha, facilitated by Pakistan, for the withdrawal of US forces. The withdrawal was a significant failure for a superpower like the US, highlighting the limitations of military might in achieving long-term stability.

The US Secretary of State under Trump also hinted at placing bounties on the heads of Taliban leaders, offering more than was placed on Osama bin Laden. Such policies risk destabilising the region further, intensifying Taliban retaliation, and endangering American interests in Afghanistan. Additionally, these actions could have profound repercussions for neighbouring countries like Pakistan and the broader South Asian region.

Challenges to American Economic Dominance
China’s imposition of tariffs and its strategic Belt and Road Initiative have fortified its global influence. By diversifying its economy and establishing strong trade relationships, China is prepared to counter American tariffs effectively. For instance, it can impose retaliatory tariffs on US goods, targeting American farmers and industries, as seen in the past. Such measures would not only escalate tensions but also place pressure on the American economy and Trump’s voter base.

China’s robust economic policies and its growing influence in regions like the Middle East and South Asia signify a shift in global power dynamics. Its willingness to bypass the dollar and strengthen the Yuan, coupled with strategic partnerships, underscores a long-term vision to challenge American hegemony.