Donald Trump’s Perspective on International Security: A Comprehensive Analysis
Subject Areas :
1 - Faculty of Civilization and World studies, Department of International Relations, Karaj Branch, Islamic Azad University, Karaj, Iran
Keywords: Trump, international institutions, international security, national security, security strategy, America First doctrine,
Abstract :
The first term of Donald Trump's presidency led to a profound shift in U.S. foreign policy, encapsulated in the "America First" doctrine. This doctrine emphasized skepticism toward multilateral institutions and prioritized bilateral relationships with other nations. It appears that this approach will continue into his second term, with a focus on concepts such as sovereignty, economic independence, and the distribution of responsibilities among states. Trump has reiterated concerns about the inadequacy of counterterrorism tools and multilateral alliances, while identifying China and Russia as primary foreign policy priorities. This article seeks to provide a comprehensive understanding of international security from Donald Trump's perspective by examining the principles, policies, and implications of his approach. The article adopts a micro-level perspective on international politics and foreign policy, aiming to understand the thought process of the U.S. president and his definition of international security. Using a qualitative methodology and content analysis, the study concludes that Trump, with a realistic foresight into the potential decline of the United States' position in the international system relative to powers like China and the European Union, seeks to reverse the trend of their rising influence. This is pursued by engaging Russia in the protracted conflict in Ukraine, which began before his tenure, weakening international institutions that are the pillars of the EU's power, and slowing China's economic growth through policies of economic pressure
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