Trump vowed to make America great again. So far, he is definitely making America strong again, demanding that allies and foes alike give America a better deal. Since President Trump’s re-election in November 2024, several countries have adjusted their policies in response to his administration’s demand.
Trade Policies:
Canada and Mexico: In November 2024, President Trump threatened to impose a 25% tariff on all imports from Canada and Mexico unless they took stronger actions against illegal immigration and drug trafficking, particularly fentanyl. In response, both countries agreed to enhance border security measures, including deploying additional personnel and implementing stricter controls, to avoid the tariffs.
China: In January 2025, President Trump announced a 10% tariff on all Chinese imports, citing unfair trade practices and the need to protect American industries. China expressed its opposition, stating that such tariffs would harm both economies, but did not immediately retaliate, opting instead to seek diplomatic negotiations to resolve the trade tensions.
Immigration and Deportation:
Colombia: In January 2025, Colombia initially refused to accept U.S. military planes carrying deported Colombian nationals, requesting that deportees be treated with dignity and sent on civilian aircraft. In response, President Trump threatened to impose tariffs on Colombian imports. Subsequently, Colombia agreed to accept the deportation flights under the condition that deportees would not be handcuffed or photographed, and that Department of Homeland Security officials would escort them instead of military personnel.
Foreign Policy
Panama: Under Trump’s second term, Panama has increasingly aligned with U.S. geopolitical and security priorities. Panama made a strategic decision to withdraw from the Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) in 2024, under U.S. pressure to limit Chinese influence in the region. This marked a significant shift, as Panama realigned its foreign policy to ensure stronger ties with Washington, particularly with the U.S. controlling the Panama Canal and maintaining strong economic and security interests in the region.
As soon as President Trump was elected, Hamas called for a ceasefire. In January 2025, Trump issued an ultimatum to Hamas, demanding the release of all Israeli hostages by a specific deadline or face severe consequences. This strong stance led to Hamas agreeing to release more hostages as part of the ongoing ceasefire negotiations.
As President Trump resumes office, European leaders are scrambling to evaluate their defense and foreign policy strategies, particularly in light of concerns about U.S. disengagement from Europe. A recent survey of European experts highlighted the existential threat posed by the withdrawal of U.S. forces from Europe, likening it to the destabilizing impact of a nuclear attack by Russia. With Trump’s return, these fears could soon materialize, as his administration’s early signs indicate a shift towards prioritizing American defense over global alliances. This could involve reducing U.S. forces in Europe or using the threat of abandonment as a bargaining chip to demand greater defense spending from European nations, especially on U.S. weapons. Additionally, Trump’s focus on negotiating with Russia directly, without involving Ukraine or European allies, and his critical stance on European trade, technology, and free speech policies, has raised doubts about the reliability of the U.S. as a partner. European leaders are holding urgent meetings to assess their options, but experts agree that, in the absence of U.S. support, Europe alone would struggle to fund the war in Ukraine or secure its defense against external threats. The best path forward, many argue, is for Europe to invest in its own deterrent force, preparing for a scenario in which American backing may no longer be as certain as before.
President Trump made an intriguing offer to Ukraine, proposing a deal in which the U.S. would provide robust defense support in exchange for access to Ukraine’s vast mineral resources. This arrangement, which aimed to secure Ukraine’s sovereignty against Russian aggression, would have granted the U.S. strategic control or partnership over critical minerals essential for advanced technologies, such as rare earth metals. In return, Ukraine would have gained military assistance, reinforcing its defenses with advanced American weaponry and support. While Ukrainian President Zelensky ultimately did not accept the offer, he has not presented a viable alternative plan for securing the country’s future, and Europe has yet to offer him a practical substitute.
This offer encapsulates Trump’s “Make America Great Again” policy, signaling a shift where the U.S. no longer sees itself as the global financier for causes that do not benefit its own interests. It underscores a growing American reluctance to fund international initiatives without securing tangible returns, particularly in terms of strategic assets and economic advantages. The deal highlighted the intersection of defense, resources, and national interest, pressing Zelensky to consider how to navigate a world where American support may increasingly come with conditions.
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