The rapidly shifting global landscape presents significant challenges for US foreign policy. The recent meeting in Riyadh between US Secretary of State Marco Rubio and Russian Foreign Minister Sergey Lavrov underscored the urgent need for diplomatic solutions, particularly regarding the conflict in Ukraine. As traditional grand strategies become less effective, the United States must reassess its approach to global affairs, ensuring its policies are both pragmatic and adaptable to changing geopolitical realities.

The discourse surrounding the Ukraine conflict highlights a crucial debate within US foreign policy: whether to prioritize peace or uphold longstanding principles against territorial expansion by force. Historically, the US has championed the idea that acquiring territory through aggression is illegitimate, a core tenet of the UN Charter. However, inconsistencies in the application of this principle-particularly in regions like Palestine, Iraq, and Afghanistan-have raised questions about the credibility of American foreign policy.

The US has, at times, contradicted its own stated values. The plight of Palestinians and the suffering of Iraqis and Afghans illustrate this disconnect. While Washington condemns Russia’s actions in Ukraine, its support for Israeli policies in occupied territories and past military interventions suggest a selective application of international norms. This inconsistency has fueled skepticism about America’s global leadership and has contributed to its declining influence in many parts of the world.

The current trajectory of US foreign policy suggests that its global influence is waning. While America still maintains a formidable military presence and a dominant role in international institutions, emerging financial strains threaten its capacity to sustain these engagements. An impending economic downturn could reduce funding........

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