The Shifting Sands of Global Order: A Critical Look at Trump's Impact

In 2025, the world found itself at a crossroads, with the international order established after World War II facing unprecedented challenges. The rules and laws that had governed global relations for decades were under siege, and the United States, once a central figure in creating this order, was now a significant force in dismantling it.

A Stark Departure

Donald Trump's presidency marked a stark departure from the policies of his predecessors. His administration's approach to foreign policy was characterized by a rejection of the "liberal world order" and a focus on "America first." This shift was not without its critics, who warned of the potential consequences of abandoning the international order.

Chaotic Foreign Policy

The Trump administration's foreign policy was often described as chaotic, with a mix of non-interventionist ideology and sporadic interventions. This inconsistency left allies uncertain and created a sense of instability in global relations. One consistent target of Trump's administration was international law, which was seen as a constraint on U.S. power.

Mobster Diplomacy

The administration's approach to international law was described as "mobster diplomacy," involving shakedowns, blackmail, and deal-making. This approach was evident in the administration's handling of various global issues, from Ukraine to Venezuela, and its relationship with allies and adversaries alike.

Impact on International Institutions

The administration's actions also had a significant impact on international institutions. The U.S. left or sought to undermine several UN bodies, and funding for organizations linked to the UN was cut. This withdrawal from international institutions was seen as a rejection of the rules-based international order.

Chilling Effect

The administration's actions also had a chilling effect on those who sought to uphold international law. Judges, human rights groups, and others faced sanctions and other forms of retaliation for their efforts. This created a climate of fear and made it more difficult for international law to be upheld.

Perception of International Law

The administration's actions also had a profound impact on the perception of international law. While some saw it as a tool for justice, others saw it as a futile attempt to soften the brutality of war. This debate highlighted the complexities of international law and the challenges of upholding it in a world of shifting power dynamics.

Preserving the Order

Despite the challenges, there were those who believed in the value of international law and the rules-based international order. They argued that this order was worth preserving and that the U.S. should play a role in upholding it. However, the administration's actions suggested a different path, one that prioritized national interests over global cooperation.