In the recently concluded United States elections, former President Donald Trump has made a historic comeback, winning by an overwhelming margin against his Democratic opponent, Kamala Harris. This victory marks the largest margin in recent U.S. electoral history. Trump, who served as the 45th President from 2017 to 2021, is set to assume office as the 47th President on January 20, 2025. His return to power has already begun sparking debates about the potential geopolitical and domestic impacts of his leadership.
Trump’s re-election is likely to bring significant shifts in global geopolitics. His bold promise to end U.S.-backed wars resonates with a world weary of prolonged conflicts. A prominent example of such conflict is the ongoing Russia-Ukraine war, which has persisted for over two years. Critics of the Biden administration contend that this war was ignited by U.S. efforts to push Ukraine into the NATO fold, a move strongly opposed by Russia. Moscow resisted this effort, unwilling to allow NATO or U.S. forces to position themselves along its borders.
The resulting conflict has devastated Ukraine, leaving its cities and infrastructure in ruins, while also severely impacting Russia’s economy. The Biden administration’s continuous supply of military aid to Ukraine, coupled with pressure on NATO allies to follow suit, has fuelled the war, turning it into a battle of egos and power. Many fear that if this war is not resolved soon, it could escalate into a global crisis, potentially triggering World War III. The ongoing conflict has also taken a massive human toll, with millions of civilians in Ukraine and Russia paying the price. This dynamic is mirrored in the Middle East, where tensions between Israel and neighbouring Gulf nations have resulted in the loss of tens of thousands of innocent lives.
Trump’s declaration of ending wars upon his return to office has been met with cautious optimism. Unlike certain political and economic factions that profit from war, ordinary citizens overwhelmingly desire peace. However, achieving peace in a world shaped by vested interests is no small task. Arms industries and nations benefiting from prolonged conflicts are likely to resist any attempts to curtail wars.
The aftershocks of these wars are expected to last for decades, leaving war-torn nations struggling to rebuild and recover. Many world economies including United States, which are dependent on defence and war-related industries, face a dilemma. Trump’s leadership may present a shift in this dynamic, as his previous term notably avoided any new wars.
Trump’s return to power is also significant for U.S.-India relations. His rapport with Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi is well-documented, with both leaders sharing a nationalist outlook and a commitment to strengthening their respective nations. Trump’s pro-India stance was evident during his first term, marked by initiatives to bolster trade, security, and diplomatic ties between the two countries. This in contrast with the cold relations under Biden administration, which lacked any warmth and strategic alignment.
For India, Trump’s presidency represents an opportunity to deepen ties with the U.S., a critical partner in areas such as defence, technology, and trade. A stronger U.S.-India partnership could also serve as a counterbalance to rising geopolitical challenges, particularly from China. However, India must remain cautious and pragmatic, keeping a close watch on developments in U.S. domestic and foreign policy while focusing on its own security and economic stability.
Domestically, Trump faces significant challenges as he prepares to take office. The U.S. is grappling with a host of pressing issues, including economic uncertainty, political polarization, and social unrest. Trump’s ability to address these challenges while navigating the complexities of global diplomacy will determine the success of his second term. His leadership style, often marked by bold and unconventional decisions, is likely to continue shaping his approach to governance.
As Trump prepares to take the oath of office on January 20, 2025, the world watches with anticipation. His presidency could usher in a new era of peace and cooperation or further deepen existing divisions. For now, one thing is certain: the geopolitical landscape is set for significant change under Trump’s leadership, with far-reaching implications for the United States, its allies, and the broader global community. -Yugal Parashar