Trump’s presidency has not merely shaken the postwar order; it has exposed how far the United States has drifted from a benevolent superpower to an unruly one. His contempt for alliances, law, and norms, and readiness to dramatically disrupt the world’s order includes his war of choice against Iran, which has proven to be disastrous to the global trade in oil and gas. His attempt to seize Greenland alarmingly soured US relations with its closest allies in Europe, and his abduction of Venezuela’s leader raised serious concerns about the US’ bullying throughout Latin America. Together, they have shattered the image of US responsibility and leadership that has been built since 1945, reflecting a decay in legitimacy, capability, and purpose.

The deepest damage lies in the erosion of US legitimacy as an agent of a rules based order. For decades, Washington could press allies toward difficult decisions, trusting that it ultimately sought broader stability. Trump’s impulsive, law-indifferent use of power—of which Iran is one example—is now seen as erratic. US legitimacy has eroded, and even necessary initiatives meet suspicion and resistance.

Trump’s “America First” protectionism has weakened the trade and financial system that once amplified US power. Tariff wars, sweeping sanctions, and disdain for institutions like the WTO and NATO have accelerated efforts to move away from the dollar and US-centered systems. An alternative financial architecture is emerging in which Washington can no longer easily weaponize access to capital, technology, or markets.

This is compounded by visible democratic backsliding. Trump’s assaults on the rule of law, delegitimization of elections, and contempt for the press have made US politics a........

© Blitz