Trump's stringent policies are likely to strain America's international relations further

By Vikas Meshram* 

In November 2024, Donald Trump won the U.S. presidential election with a massive majority, marking the beginning of his second term as the 47th President of the United States. His return to power has been marked by several controversial decisions that are poised to significantly impact America's domestic and international policies, as well as global politics. His strategic approach highlights a strong inclination toward nationalism and protectionism.

One of Trump's first and most controversial decisions in this term was granting pardons to nearly 1,600 individuals involved in the January 2021 Capitol riots. While this move pleased his supporters, it faced widespread opposition across various quarters. Trump described these individuals as "patriots" who fought for the rights of the "real America." However, this decision has raised significant concerns about the autonomy of the judiciary.

Trump also decided to withdraw the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO), accusing it of failing to manage the COVID-19 pandemic effectively and showing bias toward China. Despite the U.S. being a major financial contributor to the WHO, this bold decision has far-reaching implications for global health initiatives, including programs targeting diseases like HIV/AIDS, malaria, and tuberculosis. The U.S. funds 18% of the WHO’s budget, and its withdrawal is expected to exacerbate challenges faced by global health programs.

Signing an order to withdraw from the 2015 Paris Climate Agreement, Trump targeted multilateralism, creating a new precedent. Since George W. Bush's withdrawal from the Kyoto Protocol in 2001, the U.S. has become the only country to exit climate agreements three times. Trump's second withdrawal, especially at a time when the world has recorded its first calendar year with temperatures exceeding 1.5°C, has drawn global disappointment.

The U.S., as the world's second-largest emitter of greenhouse gases and its most powerful economy, holds a significant responsibility for global climate leadership. However, with a history of reneging on such commitments, particularly under Trump, the world is questioning America's reliability in addressing climate change. By 2022, the U.S. had achieved only one-third of its 2030 emission reduction target. Trump's emphasis on fossil fuel production further threatens the global environment.

Trump has also taken a hardline stance on immigration, proposing to revoke the birthright citizenship of undocumented immigrants' children. This decision could have serious repercussions for immigrant families. Additionally, he has signaled stricter restrictions on immigration to the U.S.

Another controversial proposal is the imposition of a 100% import tariff on BRICS countries, including India. This decision could severely impact the economies of these nations, especially India, which plays a pivotal role in trade between the U.S. and BRICS countries. Indian exporters and importers could face significant setbacks.

Trump's second term has also been marked by unconventional and contentious proposals, such as claiming rights over the Panama Canal, incorporating Greenland into the U.S., and revoking rights for the transgender community. These proposals have sparked widespread debates and criticism.

One of his more polarizing proposals is the repeal of the 14th Amendment to the U.S. Constitution, which guarantees citizenship to all individuals born in the United States. While this decision could significantly impact immigrant families, it is expected to face extensive legal challenges.

Trump's stringent policies are likely to strain America's international relations further. Withdrawing from the Paris Agreement, exiting the WHO, and imposing tariffs on BRICS countries could tarnish the U.S.'s image in the global community. His prioritization of industrial growth over environmental concerns has long-term implications for global environmental crises.

Despite widespread criticism domestically and internationally, Trump enjoys immense popularity among his supporters. His second term has begun with a bold and unconventional agenda, making it a pivotal period in global politics. Moving forward, it will be essential to reassess America's policies and responsibilities to prioritize global cooperation and accountability. The long-term implications of Trump's decisions will become evident over time, but for now, his second term marks a significant chapter in international relations.

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*Journalist