What will happen to the world with President Trump, who is “friendly” with Russia and Israel? They say “the war will end soon”: Tokyo Shimbun TOKYO Web

Former Republican President Trump, who won the US presidential election, advocated an “America First” policy and there are expected to be changes in relations with allies, including Japan. If he becomes president, he intends to force allies such as the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO) to shoulder even greater burdens, and there are fears that Japan will also be forced to shoulder a greater burden in the costs of stationing US troops.

◆What about NATO, the Quad and the Japan-US Security Treaty? retreat towards international cooperation

Trump, who prioritizes his own country’s interests and is reluctant to pursue international cooperation, has questioned NATO, arguing that the United States is being forced to bear an undue burden. Concerns are growing among the countries involved that this attitude could extend to the Quad, a framework of cooperation between Japan, the United States, Australia and India, which aims to achieve a “free and open Indo-Pacific”.

There is also the possibility of a change in policy regarding the Russian invasion of Ukraine and the situation in the Palestinian autonomous region of Gaza, for which the Biden administration has been forced to respond on two fronts. Trump took a position closer to Russian President Vladimir Putin, justifying the invasion of Ukraine and insisting that the war in Ukraine would “end immediately.” It is believed that China will forcibly proceed with peace negotiations by forcing Ukraine to cede some territory. In the election, he received support from the Christian right, which considers support for Israel a religious obligation, and is expected to accelerate his pro-Israel policies.

◆How should we respond to the “biggest threat”: China?

It sees China as the “biggest threat” and plans to impose a 60% tariff on it. Furthermore, if China invaded Taiwan, it would impose tariffs of “150 to 200%.” However, Trump’s diplomatic position is sometimes inconsistent, as he prioritizes personal relationships with leaders of other countries and the interests of the situation, and there is a possibility that Trump’s personal judgment may weaken the pressure on China. (Washington, Toshinori Asai)