The US president’s bullying of allies and partners is short-termist and will boost Beijing’s power, not Washington’sDonald Trump’s return to the White House is so far proving more nightmarish for US allies and friends than adversaries. China certainly doesn’t relish a trade war with the US, but it was better prepared than others for Mr Trump’s tariffs, and both sides appear to be leaving room for a potential deal. And, though China’s leader, Xi Jinping, is poised for worse to come, the second Trump term is bringing Beijing opportunities as well as problems.International respect for the US plummeted under his last administration. As the US president turns the screws on long-term partners, China is looking to take advantage. Colombia quickly caved to Mr Trump on the matter of migrant returns, but China’s ambassador has been celebrating the “best moment” in relations between Bogotá and Beijing. Under pressure from the Trump administration, Panama announced that it w...
The article discusses how Donald Trump's presidency has weakened US alliances and inadvertently strengthened China's global influence. Trump's aggressive tactics, such as trade wars and disregard for international norms, have diminished US respect and pushed countries towards China. China is capitalizing on this shift by forming new partnerships and increasing its role in multilateral institutions, particularly with middle-income nations. While China is stepping into the void left by the US, it employs both cooperation and pressure tactics, as seen with the appointment of controversial diplomat Lu Shaye. The US's declining power and China's rise suggest a potential multipolar world, presenting both opportunities and challenges for global dynamics.
