Trump’s ‘America First’ policy: Possible geopolitical shifts in the Middle East, implications for Modi, China, Putin, NATO peppermint

Donald Trump’s victory marked a drastic change in US foreign policy, driven by his “America First” principles – non-interventionism, trade protectionism and a focus on reshaping global relations. From his domestic economic reforms to his controversial stances on international issues, Trump’s approach has been shaping the political landscape.

Key alliances, particularly with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi and Russian President Vladimir Putin, along with figures such as Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu were at the center of his foreign policy agenda.

Trump and Modi: A strategic shift?

Under the Donald Trump administration, US-India relations entered a new phase in the first term. Both countries, led by right-wing populists – Trump and Modi – shared a common emphasis on economic nationalism and self-reliance.

Under Modi’s leadership, India pursued economic self-reliance and also deepened its ties with the US. This alignment played an important role in shaping the Indo-Pacific strategy, especially in the context of security and defense cooperation.

The world’s two largest democracies, the US and India, became strategic partners in defence, particularly through initiatives such as the Basic Exchange and Cooperation Agreement (BECA). This increased military and intelligence cooperation substantially enhanced their combined influence in the region, especially in the backdrop of China’s increasingly assertive China.

Donald Trump’s bold claims on Russia and Ukraine

Donald Trump’s stance towards Russia and Ukraine has been a matter of controversy on the global stage. Trump has often suggested that he could immediately end the war between Russia and Ukraine.

According to reports, Trump’s strategy may include urging Ukraine to seek peace talks while delaying its potential NATO membership – a proposal that has been discussed in depth by some of his former national security advisers.

However, this approach has been criticized. Opponents argue that Trump’s tendency to appease Russian President Vladimir Putin could jeopardize European security.

The future of NATO under Trump’s leadership remains uncertain, with critics fearing his skepticism could lead the US to withdraw from the alliance.

Middle East: Trump’s ‘friendship’ with Netanyahu and the Gaza conflict

Donald Trump’s Middle East policies were characterized by bold actions that potentially changed the dynamics of the region.

Trump’s “maximum pressure” campaign against Iran, withdrawal from the nuclear deal and controversial support for Israel’s interests were some of the most defining features of his first term in the White House.

In particular, Donald Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel and the ‘Abraham Accords’ normalized relations between Israel and Arab states, thereby alienating the Palestinians. As the Gaza war escalates, Trump’s position remains uncertain. His claim that the conflict would not have escalated on his watch due to his tough stance on Iran – remains a central theme in his campaign rhetoric.

China Puzzle: Trade and Security

China remains an important issue for Donald Trump’s foreign policy. During his first term, he labeled China a “strategic competitor” and imposed tariffs that sparked a trade war between the two countries.

The Donald Trump administration, during its first term, took a tough stance on China, with an emphasis on reducing the trade imbalance and bringing manufacturing back to the US.

The Biden administration has largely continued these policies while maintaining tariff and security alliances with countries like Taiwan.

Donald Trump’s approach towards China, often described as “tough but unpredictable”, has raised concerns about the future of US–China relations.

While Trump has expressed admiration for Chinese President Xi Jinping’s leadership, his policies indicate continued strategic rivalry, particularly on Taiwan.

In his recent statements, Trump has indicated that if he is re-elected, he would not need to resort to military action to stop the Chinese blockade of Taiwan, but would instead rely on economic pressure.

Trump on NATO and global security

Donald Trump’s controversial stance on NATO – where he has accused European allies of reneging on US military commitments – has set off alarm bells in Europe.

Although he has claimed that his criticisms are part of a broader negotiating strategy to push NATO members to meet defense spending targets, the possibility of US withdrawal from NATO remains a real concern.

The future of transatlantic security also depends on whether Donald Trump’s approach is a tactical maneuver or a fundamental shift in US foreign policy.

Donald Trump’s economic nationalism, protectionism

Donald Trump’s “America First” policies reshaped the US economy in 2017, emphasizing self-reliance and protectionism. His tax cuts, particularly the Tax Cuts and Jobs Act of 2017, were intended to stimulate domestic production and manufacturing.

These policies were also accompanied by efforts to renegotiate trade agreements, such as the North American Free Trade Agreement (NAFTA), which was replaced by the United States–Mexico–Canada Agreement (USMCA).

However, these policies also led to international tensions, particularly in trade relations with China.

Tariffs imposed on Chinese goods led to retaliatory measures, escalating global trade disputes.

Trump’s focus on securing American jobs and reducing the trade deficit remains a central tenet of his policy approach, and it will continue to define his economic strategy.

Is the world waiting for geopolitical change under the leadership of Donald Trump?

Donald Trump’s return to the White House signals a dramatic shift in global politics, especially US foreign policy. From his approach toward China and Russia to his handling of NATO and the Middle East, Trump’s “America First” policies will likely shape the debate over global security and economic stability.