It was hoped that, despite his obvious shortcomings, US President Donald Trump would bring a halt to the Russia-Ukraine conflict. That would have made him deserving of the Nobel Peace Prize. Unfortunately, despite all his claims of having a special relationship with Russian President Vladimir Putin, there has been very little progress in this regard. The world hopes that, at least in this case, Trump succeeds in his objectives.
As a disruptor, too, Trump is having an impact on the world. He has managed to unite the European Union and NATO allies as never before. They have been made to realise that depending on US support in defence matters while focusing more on social welfare expenditures is no longer feasible. Along with other parts of the world, Europe too is preparing to counter Trump’s planned tariff war.
In the US, however, Trump has not been able to deliver what he had promised – a quick improvement of the economy, lowered inflation and increased jobs and incomes. In fact, he has had to concede that there will be a period of difficulty before these objectives are achieved. The signs thus far are not good as the amateur approach to governance is becoming visible – the latest being the embarrassment caused by the leaked meeting on the Signal app of Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth with fellow officials. Other steps taken, such as reducing the number of federal employees, deporting students and others for allegedly supporting Hamas, etc., are being blocked by the judiciary, with the system fighting back against ad hoc and erratic decision making.
Trump has already pulled back somewhat on his tariff threats, while the date of implementation approaches fast. Counter tariffs have been levied by other countries, particularly Canada, in sectors where these have come into effect, already impacting prices. India is perhaps the one country that has engaged positively with the US government on this subject from the very start and has shown willingness to negotiate agreements for mutual advantage. Economists agree that it is time, anyway, for India to drop its traditional protectionism and become more competitive in local manufacturing and other industries. This will prove advantageous in the long run. Trump’s administration is accusing Russia, China and India, also, of seeking to ‘de-dollarize’ the global economy and, even if this does not happen immediately, it is certainly desirable in the long run. Ultimately, it is for the American people to rein in Trump if the US is not to lose its present prominent position in world politics and the global economy.
