WASHINGTON (AP) – President Donald Trump continues to navigate foreign relations with a mix of assertiveness and unpredictability, exemplified recently by his actions toward Canadian Prime Minister Mark Carney. Following Carney's increasingly assertive stance against U.S. policies, Trump rescinded an invitation for him to join his Board of Peace. This board, which was created initially to support the ceasefire in the ongoing Israel-Hamas conflict, has raised concerns among Western allies who fear it might develop into a rival to the United Nations.
During his address at the World Economic Forum in Davos, Trump discussed the potential implementation of tariffs on Switzerland but ultimately retracted them due to his dissatisfaction with the Swiss leader after a phone conversation. Prior to this decision, he pressured Denmark to endorse a U.S. initiative regarding Greenland, suggesting that a “yes” response would lead to U.S. appreciation, while a “no” could have repercussions. This stance has threatened the NATO alliance's stability.
Trump's actions in recent weeks highlight his intention to dismantle the post-World War II rules-based international order, which he and his supporters consider inefficient. They seek a foreign policy approach responsive to the modern economic landscape. However, many are concerned that this new paradigm under Trump’s leadership, which often fluctuates based on personal feelings, could lead to global instability.
Senator Lisa Murkowski of Alaska noted that at Davos, a recurrent theme among leaders was the feeling that “we are entering this new world order.” She pointed out that uncertainty stemming from Trump’s unpredictability has led former reliable allies to reconsider their ties, potentially seeking partnerships with other nations.
The structure of governance under Trump appears to focus heavily on his singular authority. He previously accepted the Republican presidential nomination by asserting, “I alone can fix” the nation's issues. As he embarks on his second term, he embraces this power more confidently, a style reminiscent of “to the victor goes the spoils.” This has been echoed by Trump’s former adviser, Steve Bannon, who characterized Trump’s approach as a “maximalist strategy,” pursuing goals until encountering resistance.
While the Republican-controlled Congress has largely abstained from challenging Trump's decisions, leaders from other countries express growing concern. Carney, at the forefront of calls for a unified approach among middle powers against U.S. policies, stated in Davos that nations need to collaborate or risk being sidelined. He advocated for a collective effort to maintain the values of legitimacy and cooperation in a world marked by increasing power rivalries.
Trump reacted negatively to Carney's speech, responding with threats and retracting the Board of Peace invitation, reminding Carney of Canada’s reliance on the United States. However, Carney remained undeterred, presenting Canada as a model for nations lost in these turbulent times, discussing the possibility of an alternative path that opposes the trends toward authoritarianism and division.
In the UK, Prime Minister Keir Starmer criticized Trump's “insulting” remarks questioning NATO's reliability. Trump had downplayed the contributions of non-U.S. troops in Afghanistan, disregarding the sacrifices many allied soldiers made during the conflict. Starmer emphasized the bravery and commitment of British personnel, particularly in the context of their contributions to international security efforts.
Concerns grow that Trump's approach may inflict long-term damage to the United States' global standing, leading countries to reassess their alliances and strengthen ties with rivals such as China. Carney has also engaged with Chinese officials, indicating a strategic pivot among nations wary of U.S. leadership. Trump, on social media, suggested that Canada would become vulnerable to China, and the Pentagon underscored a defense strategy urging allies to prioritize their own security.
Senator Chris Coons, a Democrat from Delaware, shared insights from discussions with foreign leaders at Davos, suggesting that Trump only adjusts his demanding approach when confronted with strong resistance. He noted that nations that tried to accommodate the U.S. have not gained respect under Trump’s regime, implying that a reconsideration of strategies may be necessary.
