The global rule of law, while strained, remains fundamentally intact. The single, and potentially defeatable, problem is U.S. President Donald Trump, whose approval ratings are declining, and who is increasingly seen by Americans as an anomaly. This places the onus on the American people to curb what some describe as his autocratic tendencies.
The argument posits that the familiar post-war world order of great power competition and spheres of influence has not fundamentally changed, if Trump’s policies are factored out of the equation.
This crisis, according to the piece, is not one that Europe can solve. Trump is an American-made problem, and it is the responsibility of Americans to correct the course. This correction is anticipated, given the record levels of opposition to his policies.
Trump’s behavior reveals an excessive selfishness and a desire to dominate the world that is spiraling out of control. This is exemplified in his push to establish a so-called “peace council” that disregards Palestinian independence and is described as a club for dictators aimed at marginalizing the United Nations.
Trump has caused consternation among European leaders. The president of the European Commission, Ursula von der Leyen, warned that the shift in the international order has become permanent, and that there is a growing perception that might makes right.
Such pessimism lacks historical perspective. A balanced view is needed. If Trump’s policies and positions are removed from the equation, a different picture emerges. The key question is whether American voters will choose to remove him from power. The upcoming election will be a crucial test of the resilience of democratic institutions.
