For Donald Trump, the former president of the United States, this is an especially consequential inflection point. Now, more than ever, his influence is waning, even among global populist leaders. He has to contend with his own historically low approval ratings. His foreign policy decisions, particularly regarding Ukraine and Canada, are actively reorienting the political terrain around right-wing parties everywhere. His “America First” agenda that’s so outdated and discredited nowadays inspired millions of Americans. Today, it’s a double edged sword, presenting both opportunities and roadblocks to his supporters.
By the 100th day of his presidency, Trump managed to receive the most abysmal polling figures of any sitting president in at least 40 years. This fall in popularity arrives at a time of increased focus on his administration’s foreign policy missteps and increasing troubles at home. Despite these setbacks, Trump’s recent dealings with Ukraine have temporarily boosted his approval ratings, particularly as the U.S. begins to pivot away from traditional alliances.
Changing Attitudes Toward Canada
So far, the most alarming aspect of Trump’s Canadian approach has been the way it’s alarmed Canadian leaders. He called for Canada to take its place as the 51st state. He has proposed tariffs that would deliver existential blows to Canada’s economy. These aggressive tactics have led Canadian officials into a panic over their country’s sovereignty.
Trump’s policies are much worse with profound consequences. The Bank of America analysts aren’t the first to warn that they might trigger a recession on Canada, at the cost of millions of jobs. The tariffs that have been slapped on Canadian goods have created bad blood and poisoned the well of relations between the two close countries.
“America wants our land, our resources, our water, our country.” – Mark Carney
At the same time, Trump’s influence on European politics is looking more complicated by the day. His confrontational style has allowed French President Emmanuel Macron to reassert his position as a key leader within the European Union. Yet Macron’s overtures come as anti-American sentiment reaches a fever pitch. This increase is, of course, driven by Trump’s incendiary rhetoric and erratic policies.
“But these are not idle threats. President Trump is trying to break us so that America can own us. That will never, that will never ever happen.” – Mark Carney
On the flip side, the massive crisis has caused some right-wing leaders to reassess the approach they’ve been taking. For instance, Vice President JD Vance and tech entrepreneur Elon Musk openly supported Germany’s far-right populist AfD party, signaling a shift in alliances that may further complicate Europe’s political dynamics.
A Shift in European Populism
Italy’s Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni has proved to be consummate at keeping her popularity. She is attempting to present herself as the go-between with Trump for Europe. Meloni’s rise to power was fueled by immigration policies reminiscent of Trump’s own approach during his presidency.
Trump is just as shrewdly playing his own political opposition. So toxic has been his Ukraine policy that even other world leaders, such as Brexit architect Nigel Farage, have been forced to cut ties with him. The political aftershocks of such decisions may produce massive political tsunamis, with seats in play as national elections approach in a number of countries.
Scott Bessent, a political analyst, noted the urgency of reaching trade agreements with the United States:
Looming Political Earthquakes
Finally, the thundercloud of Trump’s impending state visit with King Charles III suddenly punctuates this drama, injecting yet another note of absurdity. This highly publicized event is seen by many Britons as an act of flattery through pageantry at a time when Trump’s reputation is under scrutiny.
Scott Bessent, a political analyst, noted the urgency of reaching trade agreements with the United States:
“I think from our talks that these governments actually want to have the framework of a trade deal done before they go into elections to show that they have successfully negotiated with the United States.” – Scott Bessent
The looming state visit of Trump with King Charles III also adds another layer of complexity. This highly publicized event is seen by many Britons as an act of flattery through pageantry at a time when Trump’s reputation is under scrutiny.
