21 Kartik, Kathmandu: In a rally in September, Donald Trump, the Republican candidate for the U.S. presidency, stated, “We have been treated very unfairly; most of our allies treat us worse than our so-called enemies. They cheat us in trade even though we are the ones who protect them militarily. We’re not going to let this continue.”
Now, after much speculation and intense political tug-of-war, Trump has been re-elected as the 47th President of the United States. During his campaign, he advocated for major shifts in U.S. foreign policy, and now he has the power to bring these changes to life.
This time, Trump faces a Senate where the Republicans hold a strong majority, winning 52 out of 100 seats compared to the Democrats’ 42. With this powerful backing in the upper chamber, he has fewer roadblocks in implementing his agenda. As analysts point out, this victory could signify a monumental shift in international relations, with the potential to unsettle established global norms.
Challenges within the Republican Party
Despite Trump’s clear majority, his own party may not fully support his vision. “Trump stated he doesn’t see the need to ban TikTok before elections, yet the Republican Party has a different view on this. Similarly, he proposed a 60% tax on Chinese imports, which again isn’t aligned with the party’s position.”
Even within his party, Trump may struggle to push through certain radical changes. This discord between Trump and traditional conservatives highlights potential roadblocks, as well as the risk of creating instability, especially in foreign policy.
Trump’s 'America First' Doctrine: Potential Impact on International Relations
Throughout his previous term, Trump’s “America First” approach prompted significant global repercussions. His administration withdrew from key international agreements, imposed heavy tariffs, and reduced the U.S. financial contribution to organizations like the United Nations and the World Health Organization. These decisions led to economic and political tensions worldwide, with consequences for the financial markets and global trade.
If Trump continues with his isolationist tendencies, it could disrupt current alliances and reshape America’s role on the global stage. Analysts predict that this shift would create political uncertainty and economic challenges worldwide.
Trump's Influence on Key Issues in His New Term
American voters largely backed Trump due to his tough stance on immigration and economic issues. He has already reiterated his commitment to sealing the U.S.-Mexico border and enforcing strict immigration policies. His renewed vow to end illegal immigration and complete the border wall echoes his past rhetoric.
Trump has also promised to reduce inflation by boosting domestic energy production, including expanding drilling in the Arctic. Additionally, he plans to reduce taxes for the wealthy, a controversial move reminiscent of his previous term.
Foreign policy experts predict that Trump’s “America First” policies could create significant ripples in geopolitics. By prioritizing U.S. interests, he may choose to renegotiate or withdraw from longstanding international agreements, potentially affecting global stability.
Unfulfilled Promises and New Goals: A Challenging Path Ahead
Some of Trump’s pledges, such as ending the Russia-Ukraine conflict within 24 hours, may be more difficult to fulfill than his campaign suggests. If he can bring an end to this war, it would be a major win for global peace. Political analyst Arun Kumar Subedi suggests that under Trump’s leadership, the world could see reduced foreign interventions, and countries like Nepal could benefit from this shift.
"Despite Joe Biden’s influence, the world has seen an increase in disorder due to U.S. interventions. Trump’s strong leadership and nationalist policies may decrease international interference, allowing countries like Nepal to gain indirect benefits," Subedi remarks.
Trump’s Return: What it Means for Nepal
As a global superpower, the U.S. holds significant influence on Nepal and other nations. For over seven decades, America has been one of Nepal’s key development partners. While a change in U.S. leadership typically brings limited policy adjustments, Trump’s presidency could mark a more radical shift in foreign relations.
Analysts suggest that Trump might implement strategic changes beyond just short-term policies, as his political philosophy challenges international norms. Although both Democratic and Republican leaders tend to support maintaining international order, Trump’s approach could make substantial differences.
Trump’s re-election signals a potential upheaval in world politics. As he pursues his "America First" agenda, other nations will likely feel the ripple effects, especially allies like Nepal.
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