Foreign Policy

George Washington once advised the nation to “avoid entangling alliances” with other nations. These words still mark its significance in shaping the US’s foreign policy. However, the inevitable fact is that the United States has always been deeply engrossed in global politics; therefore, it takes a toll on the government in terms of time, energy, and money. 

President Donald Trump announced additional measures to punish those coming in the way of upholding democracy and security. His America First foreign policy talks about restoring respect for the country across the world. He is emphasizing on rebuilding America’s influence over other nations. His administration mentions his visit to the Middle East and Europe as a means to solidify relations with their allies. Trump is exerting pressure on North Korea to denuclearize. The recent US-Taliban peace deal attempts to explain the desperate steps taken under the umbrella of foreign policy. However, the consequences of the deal doesn’t bring much of a ray of hope for the Afghan government amidst their land. 

William Weld, the sole Republican party candidate, running for the election against President Trump, says that he will include issues like free trade and a vigorous indulgence in diplomacy and soft power. He is a firm believer of strong and effective diplomacy to carry out a robust system of global relations. He will focus on preparing the representatives for maintaining talks at the international level and thus running a smooth diplomatic relationship with other nations.  

Democrat candidate and former US Vice president Joe Biden says that the United States “must lead not just with the example of power, but the power of our example.” He talks about defending the US’s vital interests and protecting its people, even if it would require the use of force. Maintaining a strong military will be amongst his priorities, along with a focus on diplomacy. He will work on building and maintaining diplomatic relations for a healthier global relation. Biden also talks of rejoining the Paris Climate Accord, making the issue of the climate crisis as the topmost priority. 

Vermont senator Bernie Sanders’ foreign policy aims to deal with issues viz. international cooperation for climate change, militarism, authoritarianism, and global inequality. He promises to focus on democracy, human rights, diplomacy, and economic fairness. Sanders talks about ending US support for the Saudi-led intervention in Yemen and bringing back troops from other conflicted areas. He also stands in favor of rejoining the Iran nuclear agreement. He will also work with pro-democracy forces across the globe to build societies for protecting all the people. 

Tulsi Gabbard, currently a major in the US Army National Guard, says that she will lead the country to bring about crucial changes in the foreign policy that would help withdraw from unfounded wars and bloodshed. She will focus on channelizing the resources the right way and towards peace. His foreign policies will focus on bringing peace and prosperity for all. She will aim at thriving diplomacy through communication and negotiations. 

The country’s foreign policy has been changing time and again from the days of George Washington’s administration. The personnel accountable for forming and/or shaping the foreign policy are well aware of the fact that the United States is a significant member of the global community and thus cannot afford to overlook the gravity of healthy global relations.