The Art of the Possible: How Donald Trump Navigates Global Politics
In the complex theater of international relations, the concept of achieving the possible, while postponing the difficult, often takes center stage. This approach seems to be the current modus operandi of former US President Donald Trump, as evidenced by his recent interactions on the global stage. This strategy, as explored in recent reports, is characterized by a pragmatic focus on immediate gains, even if it means sidestepping more contentious issues for the time being.
The China Deal and Beyond
The successful meeting between Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping was, in essence, a commercial transaction. Both sides made hidden concessions to achieve their desired outcomes. This resulted in a temporary truce in the trade war, which experts believe will last for a year. However, the summit sidestepped critical political issues like the Taiwan question, the alliance in the Pacific Ocean that opposes China, and the relationship between China and Russia. It also ignored the US’s insistence on China reducing its nuclear arsenal. Trump’s relative calm underscored his willingness to embrace the principle of achieving what is possible and postponing the difficult.
This approach is likely to be seen in upcoming important meetings, including the one with Saudi Crown Prince Mohammad bin Salman, which may take place this month in Washington, and the potential meeting with Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu, also this month. The key question is: What are the limits of the possible, and what are the implications of open-ended postponement?
Nuclear Escalation and Global Tensions
Last week, a notable development occurred, carrying with it an escalation in nuclear rhetoric between the United States and Russia. The former US President issued orders to resume US nuclear weapons testing, stating that due to testing programs by other countries, he had directed the war department to begin testing our nuclear weapons on an equal footing. He added that Washington’s main competitors, particularly China and Russia, appear to be conducting nuclear tests. Moscow denied conducting nuclear tests and considered its testing of the latest nuclear-powered cruise missile not a nuclear test.
The recent nuclear escalation sets the stage for a potential resumption of the arms race between nuclear powers, which is extremely dangerous, especially since the new technological level of the nuclear arsenal does not…
The Middle East and Future Meetings
Before delving into the points of convergence and divergence in American relations with the Middle East countries, it is necessary to pause at the notable development of last week, which carried with it an escalation in nuclear language between the United States and Russia. The Trump administration’s strategy, prioritizing achievable goals while deferring complex issues, will likely shape future engagements, specifically in the Middle East. With meetings planned with key figures like Mohammad bin Salman and Benjamin Netanyahu, the administration seems poised to continue this pragmatic approach.
Sources: Annahar
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