As the world closely watched Donald Trump take the oath of office once again on January 20, 2025, it is clear that his approach to governance remains as bold and disruptive as always. Trump’s first day of foreign policy change was marked by sweeping executive orders that signaled a stark departure from the previous administration’s diplomatic stance.
Trump’s First Day Foreign Policy Change: Tariffs and Trade Wars
One of Trump’s most controversial first-day actions was to impose a 25% tariff on Canadian and Mexican imports. It will come into effect on February 1, citing concerns about border security, immigration, and drug trafficking. He, therefore, justified the move as necessary to protect America’s Interests. However, pursuing this aggressive economic strategy risks trade tensions that could have far-reaching effects on businesses and consumers. These tariffs will address border concerns.
Or will it ultimately affect American industries that rely on North American trade?
The US Exits WHO and the Paris Agreement Again
In a move that echoed his previous presidency, Trump withdrew the United States from the World Health Organization (WHO) and the Paris Climate Agreement. The reasoning? According to him, these organizations drain America’s resources without providing adequate benefits, while supporters view it as reclaiming national sovereignty. Critics argue that the withdrawal weakens America’s global leadership, especially in dealing with the health crisis and climate change when global warming and epidemics remain constant threats, will this decision further isolate the U.S. on the world stage?
Middle East Policy: A Hands-Off Approach?
Trump’s words about an Israel-Hamas ceasefire were straightforward: “That is not our war. That is their war.” The statement underscores a broader strategy for disengaging from conflict in the Middle East. He recognized the need to rebuild Gaza and stopped short of offering American aid. This situation marks a significant change from the previous government’s diplomatic efforts. Can a purely hands-off approach truly serve America’s long-term interests in the region, or does it create a vacuum that adversaries might exploit?
Also Read: The Silent Cost of Economic War: Leaders’ Pleas for Sustainability
Russia and China: Strategic Partnerships or Unstable Diplomacy?
Perhaps one of the most interesting announcements was Trump’s intention to meet with President Vladimir Putin of Russia. It acknowledged Russia’s challenge in the ongoing Ukraine war. He hinted at a willingness to redefine U.S.-Russia relations, in the same way, he stressed finding “common ground” with China, although the diplomatic engagement was important, these unpredictable relationships raise the question: Is Trump seeking a genuine reset, or is he simply leveraging uncertainty as a negotiation tool…
America First, the sequel? Trump’s First Day of Foreign Policy Change
Trump’s first-day decisions reflect a clear return to his “America First” philosophy—prioritizing economic nationalism, reducing international commitments, and renegotiating global partnerships. Whether this approach will strengthen the United States or lead to unforeseen consequences remains to be seen. The world is watching and the stakes have never been higher.