Vikrant Singh Shekhawat
- India,
- 21-Jan-2025,
Donald Trump News: Donald Trump took oath as the 47th US President amid the bitter cold at the Capitol Rotunda in Washington DC. This time the swearing-in ceremony was held in a closed room. In his resolution, Trump talked about acting with immediate effect and especially emphasizing on immigration and border security reforms.Uproar in EuropeWith Trump becoming the President, concern has increased in many countries of Europe. Trump has been questioning the role of NATO for a long time. He has made it clear to NATO member countries that they will have to spend 2% of GDP on defense for their security, otherwise the support of America may weaken.According to recent NATO data, the US spends 3.6% of GDP on defense, while Greece (2.2%), Estonia (2.14%), UK (2.10%), and Poland (2%) also meet this target. On the other hand, France (1.8%) and Germany (1.2%) are behind this target. Trump's strong warning has raised security concerns in these countries.Economic pressure on the European UnionDuring the election campaign itself, Trump had described the European Union as against the economic interests of America. He alleged that European countries are not interested in buying American cars and agricultural products, while they sell millions of cars in America. Trump has said that this trade deficit will be reduced by increasing tariffs and using energy trade.France's concernsThe French President has expressed serious concern about Trump's policies. He said, "If America withdraws its warships from the Mediterranean Sea or transfers its fighter planes from the Atlantic to the Pacific Ocean, what will happen to Europe's security?" France has appealed to European countries to increase investment in domestic defense industries so that they are not completely dependent on American support.The French Prime Minister termed Trump's policies as "dominant politics" and said that if Europe does not take timely steps, it will have to suffer huge losses.Tension and strategy in GermanyThe tension in Germany regarding Trump increased further when a confidential cable of US envoy Andreas Michaelis was leaked. This cable said that Trump wants to make the presidency powerful, which can weaken American democracy. German Foreign Minister Annalena Baerbock accepted this leak and said that preparation is necessary for Trump's policies.Countries like Germany and France are now engaged in making strategies for Trump's second term. They are working towards strengthening their defense and economic policies.The way forwardDonald Trump's second term can bring a big change in America's foreign and economic policies. This will be a new challenge for European countries. They will have to take concrete steps towards balancing their defense, economic and diplomatic policies with Trump's influence.Trump's policies are going to have a wide impact not only within America but also globally. In such a situation, it will be interesting to see how the world faces these policies.