If Trump believes that it is America’s right to exert control over Greenland for strategic reasons then there’s also little standing in the way of his administration taking a similar approach to Canada, Mexico or other nations in the hemisphere where the national security, economic or strategic interests of the US are prioritized above all else.
By Fareed Khan
As the world stands on the precipice of a new administration in the United States, the election of Donald Trump to his second term as president raises urgent questions regarding peace and stability in the Western Hemisphere, in the context of increasing American nationalism. Since his election in November his unpredictable musings have not been limited to very damaging economic policy proposals, but have also extended into the realm of possible violations of the territory and sovereignty of other nations, and could involve potential military aggression against friends and allies. Under such a scenario it is imperative for Canada and its neighbouring nations to prepare for the potential fallout of Trump’s erratic behaviour, and ambitions which echo a distinctly fascistic ideology that could threaten North American unity and the sovereignty of nations surrounding the US.
Rhetoric of aggression
The threatening comments emanating from Trump and his camp are alarming. At a dinner with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and some of his senior officials at his Mar-a-Lago estate in November Trump floated the ludicrous idea of making Canada the 51st state when responding to Trudeau’s comment about the devastating impact of Trump’s suggested 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, nations with which the US renegotiated a free trade agreement in 2020. While some within the United States may laugh off these comments as a bad joke or mere politics, they breed a toxic environment of hostility that undermine long-standing cordial and stable relationship that Canada has had with the US.
A recent Leger poll released in early December in Canada, 13% of Canadians expressed support for Canada joining the US, demonstrating a disturbing inclination within a segment of the Canadian population towards Trump’s imperialistic vision. It suggests that some Canadians are willing to sacrifice Canada’s autonomy and the freedom of their fellow Canadians for perceived benefits like lower taxes and the right to own firearms that come with American citizenship. This mindset reflects a vulnerability within Canada’s population that can be exploited by those within the Trump movement ho wish to see Canada absorbed into the US, stripping it of its identity, culture, and independence.
Threats to sovereignty
Canada and the US have been friends and allies for well over a century, and have enjoyed a relatively peaceful and cordial relationship characterized by mutual respect. But Trump’s blatant disregard for this history and the norms of diplomacy and international relations threatens to destabilize what has been a long-standing and mutually beneficial alliance and economic partnership. Furthermore, the repercussions of his approach to relations between the US and other friends and allies in the hemisphere could lead to a realignment of treaties and agreements that have safeguarded the boundaries and relationships of sovereign states in North America.
Consider Trump’s ominous musings regarding the potential for American military intervention in Mexico to combat drug cartels. Reports suggest that there are plans being contemplated within his inner circle that would disregard Mexican sovereignty and undermine international law to go after narcotics kingpins. Such discussions raise profound concerns about American military imperialism, evoking historical memories of US interventions in Latin America that often sought to establish control rather than collaborate with neighbouring countries for mutual benefit.
The Greenland Calculus
In addition, Trump’s past fixation with controlling Greenland as an “absolute necessity for purposes of national security,” is not an isolated incident. And given his history as a businessman it but shows a pattern of behaviour that indicates a willingness to disregard laws and legal niceties, and even the territorial integrity of other nations, if it helps him achieve his objectives. In response to Trump’s most recent social media post about buying the territory Greenland’s prime minister made it unequivocally clear that the territory is “not for sale.” Additionally, Denmark’s reaction, to Trump’s comments was to announce that it would significantly boost defence spending for the territory, and indicates the seriousness with which the Danish government take Trump’s rhetoric. When Trump made a similar comment about buying Greenland in 2019 the foreign affairs spokesman for the Danish People’s Party said, “If he is truly contemplating this, then this is final proof, that he has gone mad.”
Given the proximity of Canada’s eastern Arctic territory to Greenland such posturing by Trump brings this country squarely into the frame as a player in a geopolitical game where the end result would be very bad news for all the parties involved if he decided on a military option to make his vision a reality. And given his comments during his first term about his admiration for Hitler and other authoritarian figures, and his proclivity to do anything to get what he wants, it would be within the realm of possibility that he would violate the territorial integrity of other nations to achieve his foreign policy goals.
Rhetoric of aggression
The threatening comments emanating from Trump and his camp are alarming. At a dinner with Canadian prime minister Justin Trudeau and some of his senior officials at his Mar-a-Lago estate in November Trump floated the ludicrous idea of making Canada the 51st state when responding to Trudeau’s comment about the devastating impact of Trump’s suggested 25% tariffs on imports from Canada and Mexico, nations with which the US renegotiated a free trade agreement in 2020. While some within the United States may laugh off these comments as a bad joke or mere politics, they breed a toxic environment of hostility that undermine long-standing cordial and stable relationship that Canada has had with the US.
A recent Leger poll released in early December in Canada, 13% of Canadians expressed support for Canada joining the US, demonstrating a disturbing inclination within a segment of the Canadian population towards Trump’s imperialistic vision. It suggests that some Canadians are willing to sacrifice Canada’s autonomy and the freedom of their fellow Canadians for perceived benefits like lower taxes and the right to own firearms that come with American citizenship. This mindset reflects a vulnerability within Canada’s population that can be exploited by those within the Trump movement ho wish to see Canada absorbed into the US, stripping it of its identity, culture, and independence.
Threats to sovereignty
Canada and the US have been friends and allies for well over a century, and have enjoyed a relatively peaceful and cordial relationship characterized by mutual respect. But Trump’s blatant disregard for this history and the norms of diplomacy and international relations threatens to destabilize what has been a long-standing and mutually beneficial alliance and economic partnership. Furthermore, the repercussions of his approach to relations between the US and other friends and allies in the hemisphere could lead to a realignment of treaties and agreements that have safeguarded the boundaries and relationships of sovereign states in North America.
Consider Trump’s ominous musings regarding the potential for American military intervention in Mexico to combat drug cartels. Reports suggest that there are plans being contemplated within his inner circle that would disregard Mexican sovereignty and undermine international law to go after narcotics kingpins. Such discussions raise profound concerns about American military imperialism, evoking historical memories of US interventions in Latin America that often sought to establish control rather than collaborate with neighbouring countries for mutual benefit.
The Greenland Calculus
In addition, Trump’s past fixation with controlling Greenland as an “absolute necessity for purposes of national security,” is not an isolated incident. And given his history as a businessman it but shows a pattern of behaviour that indicates a willingness to disregard laws and legal niceties, and even the territorial integrity of other nations, if it helps him achieve his objectives. In response to Trump’s most recent social media post about buying the territory Greenland’s prime minister made it unequivocally clear that the territory is “not for sale.” Additionally, Denmark’s reaction, to Trump’s comments was to announce that it would significantly boost defence spending for the territory, and indicates the seriousness with which the Danish government take Trump’s rhetoric. When Trump made a similar comment about buying Greenland in 2019 the foreign affairs spokesman for the Danish People’s Party said, “If he is truly contemplating this, then this is final proof, that he has gone mad.”
Given the proximity of Canada’s eastern Arctic territory to Greenland such posturing by Trump brings this country squarely into the frame as a player in a geopolitical game where the end result would be very bad news for all the parties involved if he decided on a military option to make his vision a reality. And given his comments during his first term about his admiration for Hitler and other authoritarian figures, and his proclivity to do anything to get what he wants, it would be within the realm of possibility that he would violate the territorial integrity of other nations to achieve his foreign policy goals.
If Trump believes that it is America’s right to exert control over Greenland for strategic reasons then there’s also little standing in the way of his administration taking a similar approach to Canada, Mexico or other nations in the hemisphere where the national security, economic or strategic interests of the US are prioritized above all else. Such actions could potentially lead to military mobilization that could have dire repercussions not just for North America but also for the NATO trans-Atlantic relationship, which has been the foundation that has underpinned peace and stability in Europe since after World War 2.
The threat to take back the Panama Canal
Trump’s latest target for his imperialist ambitions is Panama. In a speech in Phoenix on December 22nd he threatened to take back the Panama Canal if that nation’s government didn’t reduce shipping fees. This is another example of Trump’s restorationist rhetoric — an attempt to re-establish US dominance based on its imperialist past regardless of contemporary realities. This call has reverberated poorly across Central America where it is seen as inflammatory, and risks reigniting tensions between the US and many Latin American countries, after those nations have worked hard to move past fears about the US violating their sovereignty
The Panamanian president’s emphatic response asserting that “every square meter” of the canal belongs to Panama highlights the potential for tensions to escalate into diplomatic crises across the hemisphere. Such rhetoric destabilizes regional relationships, undermines diplomacy and political stability honed over decades, and erodes trust between the US and its neighbours.
As Canada tries to develop a strategy in response to Trump’s approach to global territorial disputes, leaders in this country must recognize that his public comments are indicative of a mindset where US foreign policy could be formulated based on his ignorance about and disregard for the norms of international relations and international law. This is a man who seemingly cares little about diplomacy and cordial relations, and is willing to bully and threaten friends and allies to achieve his foreign policy goals regardless of the long term damage it might do.
Need for Preparedness and Solidarity
As members of the international community scan the horizon for the implications of a new Trump presidency, vigilance must become paramount for Canada and its neighbours. The rhetoric of military intervention, annexation, and hegemonic ambition should be a warning sign to prepare for the real possibility of aggressive policies that threaten the sovereignty of Canada and other nations in the hemisphere.
The Canadian government must engage in proactive diplomacy to fortify alliances in the Latin American region and in Europe. By fostering relationships built on mutual respect, collaboration and historic ties Canada can position itself as a regional leader committed to preserving sovereignty and peace. There must be a concerted effort to deter the idea that America’s policy goals can be achieved through bullying, intimidation, territorial expansion or military aggression, aiming to unify voices against the fascistic impulses emanating from the US that threaten peace and stability in the Americas.
Addressing the threat of fascism
The threat that Trump’s presidency poses to the US and its neighbouring nations is symptomatic of a broader internal threat to democratic principles and the rule of law in that nation. The suggestion that territories can be commandeered or absorbed based solely on American priorities stems from rising fascist sentiments over the last decade that have garnered traction within US politics within a the segment of society that are hard core supporters of Trump.
In “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump”, a compilation of psychiatric insights put together during his first term, professionals delineate how Trump’s character poses a risk to national and individual well-being. The inadequacies he displays in addressing complex geopolitical issues reveal a troubling trend toward authoritarianism, where personal whims bypass logic, justice and international norms.
As such the incoming Trump administration poses a “clear and present danger” not only to the principles of democracy but also to the very sovereignty that defines Canada and its neighbours. His upcoming presidency challenges how nations collaborate, engage, and exist alongside one another, and poses a danger to the nations which stand in the way of his imperialist policies.
Shaping a Path Forward
As Canada and the other nations of the Western Hemisphere stand on a precipice of uncertainty, America’s neighboring nations must come together to defend the principles of sovereignty and the shared ideals of democracy. Canadian leaders cannot afford to be naive and hope that traditional diplomatic tactics will save Canada from an incoming US president who has been described as a “sociopath”. Its leaders must act decisively in forming coalitions and alliances that prioritize collective security over subjugation to a superpower led by a man with the impulse control of a child and the mental acuity of someone who shuns facts and valuable intelligence.
The rising tide of fascism in the US, which began in his first administration, calls for strategic responses that not only prioritize peace, cooperation, and respect for national boundaries, but also demonstrate national resolve to a bully who feels he can do what he wants without consequence. If Canada and its allies fail to sufficiently prepare for the incoming Trump presidency the consequences could extend far beyond policy disagreements, and could threaten peace and stability throughout the hemisphere.
Only through united action, strong diplomatic ties, defence alliances, and a clear stand against imperialist ambitions can Canada and its allies hope to fend off the looming perils of a second Trump administration. In the dance for power, Canadian leaders need to make sure that our borders aren’t just lines on a map but expressions of sovereignty, identity, and mutual respect for the independence of all nations.
Trump’s latest target for his imperialist ambitions is Panama. In a speech in Phoenix on December 22nd he threatened to take back the Panama Canal if that nation’s government didn’t reduce shipping fees. This is another example of Trump’s restorationist rhetoric — an attempt to re-establish US dominance based on its imperialist past regardless of contemporary realities. This call has reverberated poorly across Central America where it is seen as inflammatory, and risks reigniting tensions between the US and many Latin American countries, after those nations have worked hard to move past fears about the US violating their sovereignty
The Panamanian president’s emphatic response asserting that “every square meter” of the canal belongs to Panama highlights the potential for tensions to escalate into diplomatic crises across the hemisphere. Such rhetoric destabilizes regional relationships, undermines diplomacy and political stability honed over decades, and erodes trust between the US and its neighbours.
As Canada tries to develop a strategy in response to Trump’s approach to global territorial disputes, leaders in this country must recognize that his public comments are indicative of a mindset where US foreign policy could be formulated based on his ignorance about and disregard for the norms of international relations and international law. This is a man who seemingly cares little about diplomacy and cordial relations, and is willing to bully and threaten friends and allies to achieve his foreign policy goals regardless of the long term damage it might do.
Need for Preparedness and Solidarity
As members of the international community scan the horizon for the implications of a new Trump presidency, vigilance must become paramount for Canada and its neighbours. The rhetoric of military intervention, annexation, and hegemonic ambition should be a warning sign to prepare for the real possibility of aggressive policies that threaten the sovereignty of Canada and other nations in the hemisphere.
The Canadian government must engage in proactive diplomacy to fortify alliances in the Latin American region and in Europe. By fostering relationships built on mutual respect, collaboration and historic ties Canada can position itself as a regional leader committed to preserving sovereignty and peace. There must be a concerted effort to deter the idea that America’s policy goals can be achieved through bullying, intimidation, territorial expansion or military aggression, aiming to unify voices against the fascistic impulses emanating from the US that threaten peace and stability in the Americas.
Addressing the threat of fascism
The threat that Trump’s presidency poses to the US and its neighbouring nations is symptomatic of a broader internal threat to democratic principles and the rule of law in that nation. The suggestion that territories can be commandeered or absorbed based solely on American priorities stems from rising fascist sentiments over the last decade that have garnered traction within US politics within a the segment of society that are hard core supporters of Trump.
In “The Dangerous Case of Donald Trump”, a compilation of psychiatric insights put together during his first term, professionals delineate how Trump’s character poses a risk to national and individual well-being. The inadequacies he displays in addressing complex geopolitical issues reveal a troubling trend toward authoritarianism, where personal whims bypass logic, justice and international norms.
As such the incoming Trump administration poses a “clear and present danger” not only to the principles of democracy but also to the very sovereignty that defines Canada and its neighbours. His upcoming presidency challenges how nations collaborate, engage, and exist alongside one another, and poses a danger to the nations which stand in the way of his imperialist policies.
Shaping a Path Forward
As Canada and the other nations of the Western Hemisphere stand on a precipice of uncertainty, America’s neighboring nations must come together to defend the principles of sovereignty and the shared ideals of democracy. Canadian leaders cannot afford to be naive and hope that traditional diplomatic tactics will save Canada from an incoming US president who has been described as a “sociopath”. Its leaders must act decisively in forming coalitions and alliances that prioritize collective security over subjugation to a superpower led by a man with the impulse control of a child and the mental acuity of someone who shuns facts and valuable intelligence.
The rising tide of fascism in the US, which began in his first administration, calls for strategic responses that not only prioritize peace, cooperation, and respect for national boundaries, but also demonstrate national resolve to a bully who feels he can do what he wants without consequence. If Canada and its allies fail to sufficiently prepare for the incoming Trump presidency the consequences could extend far beyond policy disagreements, and could threaten peace and stability throughout the hemisphere.
Only through united action, strong diplomatic ties, defence alliances, and a clear stand against imperialist ambitions can Canada and its allies hope to fend off the looming perils of a second Trump administration. In the dance for power, Canadian leaders need to make sure that our borders aren’t just lines on a map but expressions of sovereignty, identity, and mutual respect for the independence of all nations.
© 2024 The View From Here. © 2024 Fareed Khan. All Rights Reserved.
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