America First 2.0 – The Second Trump Presidency and Its Global Impact

A New Course in the White House

Donald Trump is back in office. With the motto "America First", he is once again adopting a tough, nationalist approach. But what does this specifically mean for global politics? Since taking office at the beginning of 2025, Trump has been imposing massive tariffs on the international trade order—putting global stability and economic interconnections under pressure.

Trade War with China Escalates

On April 8, 2025, Trump announced that the U.S. will impose additional tariffs of 84 percent on all Chinese imports starting at midnight. As a result, all products from China will be subject to at least 104 percent tariffs. China promptly reacted with its own tariffs of 34 percent and is threatening further measures. The Chinese Ministry of Commerce stated they will "stand with the U.S. until the end"—a clear declaration of confrontation.

Trump Blocks International Cooperation

Donald Trump openly criticizes or ignores international organizations like the World Trade Organization (WTO). According to the White House, multilateral cooperation weakens the national sovereignty of the United States. At the same time, Trump directly influences NATO, threatens to withdraw troops, and demands higher defense spending from European partners.

The EU Under Pressure

The European Union has so far been cautious in reacting to Trump's economic policies. Although the Commission is preparing retaliatory tariffs — including on industrial products — they want to avoid escalating tensions. Products like American whiskey were removed from the tariff list due to lobbying from France and Italy, to prevent further sanctions on European exports like wine and champagne.

Climate Policy on a Collision Course

Trump announced again that he plans to leave or suspend international climate agreements like the Paris Agreement. Promoting fossil fuels is at the heart of his environmental policy. Experts warn that this could slow down the global shift to renewable energy and might encourage other countries to lower their climate goals.

Military Risks and Geopolitical Shifts

The new US administration appears unpredictable regarding security policies. Trump's strategy focuses on national interests — even if it comes at the expense of international security alliances. A rapid withdrawal from crisis areas could leave geopolitical power vacuums that authoritarian powers might exploit.

Democracy Under Pressure

Trump's rhetoric towards authoritarian regimes is noticeably mild once again. The global promotion of democracy and human rights is losing importance. Instead, there is a threat of a shift in values, which boosts authoritarian governments and undermines international norms.

A World in Transition

Donald Trump's second presidency is more than a domestic turning point — it is a global event with profound consequences. Trade wars, climate blockades, geopolitical power shifts: the international order is being shaken. The world is on the brink of a new era of uncertainty — with Donald Trump at its center.