Introduction to the Trump 2 Administration’s Foreign Policy
The foreign policy of the Trump 2 administration has been outlined by President Trump, Secretary of State Marco Rubio, and Steve Witkoff, the special envoy for the Middle East. Their messages convey a consistent tone, emphasizing the importance of national security, strengthening the US, and avoiding a third world war.
The Guiding Principles of the Trump 2 Administration’s Foreign Policy
Marco Rubio has defined the three guiding principles of the administration’s foreign policy: national security, recovering US strength and leadership, and promoting the US economy and foreign trade. Steve Witkoff has also outlined the objectives of US foreign policy, including respect for sovereignty, defense of interests, security, and territorial integrity, as well as practicing brave diplomacy and building solid alliances.
Concerns Among European Governments
Trump’s warning to European governments that do not contribute enough to their own defense and that of their allies has caused concern. Marco Rubio has emphasized the US commitment to NATO and the importance of reinforcing the Atlantic Alliance, but has also stressed that allies need to "help themselves." A new category in American foreign policy has emerged: the "unreliable ally," which includes heads of state or government with opposing ideological views.
Criticism of NATO Members’ Defense Expenses
The Spanish government has claimed that it has the fourth-highest military spending among European allies, but this is incorrect. According to NATO, the top five countries with the highest military spending as a percentage of GDP are Poland, Estonia, the US, Latvia, and Greece. Spain ranks lower, with a budget equivalent to the cost of a single US aircraft carrier.
Global Tensions and Security Concerns
The world is in a dangerous situation, with ongoing wars in Ukraine and the Middle East, and the threat of terrorism remaining high. The fall of the Bashar al-Assad regime could lead to the release of thousands of jihadists, who may return to their countries of origin in Europe. The race for dominance over energy sources and strategic raw materials will also fuel tensions.
China’s Growing Influence and Military Expansion
China controls the main lithium sources worldwide and has closed mining agreements with several countries. The Chinese are expelling France from their area of influence in Africa and competing with the US and Spain in Latin America. China’s military expansion, including the development of new aircraft carriers, nuclear attack submarines, and hypersonic missiles, poses a significant risk to global peace and security.
The Trump 2 Administration’s Approach to China
The Trump 2 administration will not seek confrontation with China but will adopt a strategy of firmness and permanent alertness. The administration will be vigilant in the face of China’s growing footprint in the world and will take steps to counter its aggressive expansionism.
Future Analysis
The second part of this analysis will focus on the Trump 2 administration’s plans and route map for Russia, Europe, the Middle East, Iran, Latin America, and Africa, particularly Venezuela.