Trump’s Foreign Policy: A Network of Autocrats and a Shift Away from Democracy

Donald Trump’s foreign policy strategy continues to center around cultivating alliances with authoritarian leaders, a trend that extends beyond his presidency. His close relationships with figures like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán and El Salvador’s Nayib Bukele have raised concerns among experts about the potential for legitimizing undemocratic practices and undermining US democratic principles. Critics argue that these alliances erode American moral authority on the global stage and create challenges in promoting democracy worldwide. Trump and his allies, however, defend their approach, emphasizing shared concerns about cultural and social shifts and a perceived need for stronger leadership against perceived threats to traditional values. The ongoing debate highlights the complexities of international relations and the potential impact of political alignments on global governance and human rights.