Trump’s 100 days: Shaking the foundations of global order

In the first 100 days of his second term, President Donald Trump has disrupted the global order in ways that have left many countries uncertain about America's future direction. His administration has launched an aggressive tariff war, reduced U.S. foreign aid, and fostered tensions within NATO, while aligning more closely with Russia’s perspective on the Ukraine conflict. Trump has even suggested controversial actions, like annexing Greenland and turning Canada into the 51st state.

Trump's "America First" agenda, marked by radical shifts, has alienated allies and emboldened rivals. His actions have raised questions about how far he is willing to go, unsettling many governments. The uncertainty surrounding his presidency is prompting responses that could prove difficult to reverse, even if a more traditional president takes office in 2028.

Critics of Trump’s policies also point to signs of democratic backsliding in the U.S., including verbal attacks on judges and pressure campaigns on universities, which have added to concerns abroad. Former U.S. diplomat Dennis Ross described the situation as a major disruption in global affairs, with no clear understanding of what to expect next.

Trump’s approach to foreign policy involves swift and often unpredictable moves, such as pushing for negotiations between Ukraine and Russia, holding China accountable for trade practices, and reimposing maximum pressure on Iran. However, his actions have sparked domestic concerns, with a significant portion of Americans—especially Republicans—questioning his close ties with Russia. The public’s lack of enthusiasm for Trump’s expansionist goals further complicates the administration’s position.

Experts warn that the future of the global system, which has been shaped largely by U.S. leadership since World War II, is at risk. The pillars of free trade, rule of law, and respect for territorial integrity are being shaken by Trump’s disdain for multilateral institutions and his transactional approach to global affairs. His sweeping tariffs have destabilized financial markets, weakened the U.S. dollar, and raised fears of a global economic slowdown. Meanwhile, his shifting stance on Russia’s actions in Ukraine and his strained relationship with NATO have left European allies uneasy.