On February 11, U.S. President Trump has emerged as a prominent figure on the global stage, issuing demands to both allies and adversaries, holding them to American interests or facing consequences. His range of threats, such as imposing hefty tariffs and pushing for advantageous agreements, reflects a transactional diplomacy style marked by explicit expectations.
Various countries have responded differently to Trump's tactics. While some have made tangible commitments like purchasing more U.S. goods, others have rebranded existing policies or made symbolic gestures devoid of substance.
For instance, Mexico deployed 10,000 National Guard troops to its border with the U.S. to address migration and drug trafficking concerns—an action that triggered Trump's tariff threat. While the impact of this reinforcement remains uncertain, experts are cautious in their assessments.
Canada, granted a tariff exemption, had previously disclosed a significant investment in border security focused on combating fentanyl trafficking and organized crime. Japan, aiming to address its trade surplus with the U.S., pledged substantial investments in American ventures and products. India, labeled a trade "abuser" by Trump, is striving to showcase openness by contemplating tariff reductions and proposing increased U.S. imports in various sectors.
Trump's pressure on European NATO allies to increase defense spending has yielded responses, with a rise in military expenditure commitments expected. Europe's focus on security, driven partly by the Ukraine conflict, underscores the financial challenges of meeting heightened defense requirements.
In discussing Ukraine's mineral deposits, Trump's call for a share of future revenues in exchange for U.S. support remains uncertain. Ukrainian President Zelenskiy expressed willingness to collaborate with Trump on mineral development, emphasizing a mutual partnership rather than relinquishing resources, though the logistics regarding resources overlapping Russian territory remain unresolved.