Presidential elections in the United States are crucial not only for the country but also for the world. The possibility of Donald Trump returning to power or Kamala Harris continuing the line of the Biden administration could mean two radically different approaches to security, foreign relations, trade, and climate change, with a direct impact on the global balance.
Security and Foreign Relations
The United States’ relationship with Europe is one of the key issues. During his first term, Trump challenged NATO countries, pressuring them to increase their defense contributions, and even hinted at a possible withdrawal from the alliance. In contrast, Harris promises to maintain the U.S. commitment to NATO, although she would also ask Europe to assume greater financial and defense responsibilities, especially in the context of the war in Ukraine. For Europe, Trump’s return could mean a return to isolationism, while Harris would represent continuity in transatlantic collaboration.
Trade and Relations with China
Trade with China is another critical point. Trump has proposed 60% tariffs on Chinese goods, seeking to reduce United States economic dependence on China and prioritize domestic production. Although his approach is aggressive, Trump claims to have a personal relationship with Chinese President Xi Jinping, which he considers crucial to avoiding military conflicts. Harris, on the other hand, is expected to continue a more predictable but equally firm diplomatic line toward Beijing, without the fluctuations that characterize Trump’s policy.
Climate Change
United States environmental policy is a matter of global concern. Mary Robinson, former President of Ireland, emphasizes that every tenth of a degree achieved in reducing global warming is fundamental. The United States, as one of the largest carbon emitters, plays an indispensable role in efforts to curb climate change, and the current administration has committed to international agreements. A Harris administration would likely follow this approach, whereas Trump’s vision, in the past, was to decouple the U.S. from international climate agreements, which could slow down global efforts to reduce emissions.
Humanitarian Leadership
In the humanitarian sphere, the United States also exerts significant influence. Martin Griffiths, former UN Under-Secretary-General, highlights that the outcome of these elections is of great importance, as the United States is the primary donor of funds to the UN. During his previous term, Trump withdrew funding from several UN agencies and left the World Health Organization, leaving other countries to fill the gaps. Griffiths expects Harris to bolster the U.S. role as a humanitarian leader, while he fears a second Trump term would deepen isolationism and unilateralism, increasing global instability.
With these elections, the United States faces a crossroads that will have profound consequences for peace, international cooperation, and the environment. The voters’ decision will not only define the course of the U.S. but will also directly impact global policy and stability, as the country remains an indispensable power on the world stage.
