Donald Trump has staged a remarkable return to the White House, securing a victory in the U.S. presidential election and marking an unprecedented comeback after his earlier term. For many Americans disillusioned by the policies of President Joe Biden, Trump’s win represents the possibility of change, especially in areas where Biden’s approach has drawn criticism both domestically and internationally. Supporters of Trump argue that his leadership promises a shift away from Biden’s policies, particularly in foreign affairs, economic strategy, and national security.
The Biden Administration: A Period of Discontent
Throughout Biden’s presidency, critics have argued that his administration failed to act decisively on a number of key issues affecting American interests. Supporters of Trump see Biden’s approach as having prioritized international alliances and sanctions, sometimes at the perceived expense of American and even global stability. One of the clearest examples cited by critics has been Biden’s stance on the war in Ukraine. Biden’s support for Ukraine and his coordination with European allies to impose sanctions on Russia have, in the view of some, strained relations with EU-member countries and prolonged a costly conflict with global economic repercussions.
Beyond Ukraine, Biden’s Middle East policy has come under intense scrutiny, especially concerning the Israeli-Palestinian conflict. The situation in Gaza, marked by cycles of violence, humanitarian crises, and accusations of genocide, has fueled criticism that Biden’s stance did little to alter or alleviate the suffering in the region. Trump, on the other hand, has promised to pursue a policy that could potentially end both the war in Ukraine and what he has described as the “genocide” in Gaza, although specific strategies remain to be seen.
Trump’s Promises: Peace and Pragmatism?
Trump’s campaign was fueled by a promise to bring about sweeping changes on the international stage. During his speeches, he vowed to broker peace between Ukraine and Russia, a position that has resonated with Americans concerned about U.S. involvement in prolonged conflicts. Trump also spoke about addressing the ongoing violence in Gaza, calling for direct negotiations and signaling a potential break from longstanding U.S. support for certain regional policies.
His foreign policy approach suggests a shift toward “America First” pragmatism, promising to pull back on what he and his supporters see as costly foreign entanglements. Trump has criticized NATO’s current framework, suggesting a reevaluation or even dismantling of the alliance, which he claims has been used by past administrations to exert U.S. control over global events rather than to protect American interests. This stance appeals to Americans who are weary of their country’s extensive military commitments abroad.
The Shadow of the “Deep State”: Can Trump Deliver?
One key question surrounding Trump’s return to office is whether he can enact the transformative changes he has promised or if he will face insurmountable resistance from the so-called “deep state.” Many believe that U.S. presidents have limited power in the face of entrenched interests within the intelligence community, military-industrial complex, and multinational corporations that hold significant sway in Washington.
The “deep state” is seen by critics as a force that guides and influences American policies regardless of who holds the Oval Office. In his previous term, Trump frequently claimed that his policies were undermined by powerful actors within the government who opposed his populist agenda. This time around, he faces an uphill battle in attempting to dismantle or even weaken these longstanding power structures, and his success or failure in this regard will likely define his legacy.
The Global Stakes: Hopes for a Better Future?
Trump’s supporters at home and abroad see his presidency as a potential turning point for global peace and stability. The end of the war in Ukraine, a resolution to the crisis in Gaza, and a reevaluation of NATO are aspirations that resonate widely. While his critics argue that Trump’s policies could further destabilize some regions, his base remains hopeful that he can bring about positive change.
One key concern for both Americans and the world at large is Trump’s capacity to balance these aspirations with the realities of governance. As he returns to office, he inherits a divided nation with polarized views on his leadership and policies. His critics fear that his policies could create new divides, both domestically and internationally, while his supporters believe his unique approach could yield results where traditional diplomacy has faltered.
Conclusion: A Presidency Full of Unknowns
Trump’s return to the White House has brought both renewed hope and lingering skepticism. For supporters, he represents a leader who can challenge the status quo and prioritize American interests in ways that have been neglected by previous administrations. For others, his presidency raises questions about stability, accountability, and the risks of unconventional governance.
As Trump embarks on his second term, the world will be watching closely to see whether he fulfills his promises or is met with the constraints that come with governing a superpower. His tenure could reshape U.S. foreign policy, alter alliances, and change the landscape of international relations. But whether he will succeed in his bold vision remains to be seen.
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Prof. Ruel F. Pepa is a Filipino philosopher based in Madrid, Spain. A retired academic (Associate Professor IV), he taught Philosophy and Social Sciences for more than fifteen years at Trinity University of Asia, an Anglican university in the Philippines. He is a regular contributor to Global Research.
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“Trump promises to bring lasting peace to a tumultuous Middle East. But fixing it won’t be easy” . . . https://apnews.com/article/trump-mideast-netanyahu-israel-gaza-iran-wars-2e37305522d19bdc34e956586cce99bd
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“Trump’s victory could mean US withdraws support for Ukraine in war with Russia” . . . https://edition.cnn.com/2024/11/06/politics/trump-election-ukraine-war-russia-intl/index.html
“Undoing the ‘deep state’ means Trump would undo over a century of progress in building a federal government for the people and not just for rich white men” . . . https://theconversation.com/undoing-the-deep-state-means-trump-would-undo-over-a-century-of-progress-in-building-a-federal-government-for-the-people-and-not-just-for-rich-white-men-234421
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