Australia's place in the global order has been called into question as Donald Trump's presidency continues to erode trust and norms that have held since World War II. The recent standoff over Greenland, which Trump used to test Europe's resolve and demonstrate his power, is a prime example of this trend.
Trump's actions are no longer seen as provocative or unpredictable but as the new normal, where he wields his influence to achieve his goals without regard for international law or cooperation. This approach has profound implications for Australia, which relies heavily on its alliance with the US and the rules-based order that has protected peace in Western Europe for nearly 80 years.
The Atlantic alliance is evaporating before our eye, and Trump's actions are a significant contributor to this trend. By abandoning traditional norms of diplomacy and international cooperation, he has sent a message that power and influence can be achieved through strength and coercion rather than negotiation and compromise.
This shift in global politics has left Australia marooned, struggling to find its place in a world where the rules no longer apply. The country's own alliance with the US is under scrutiny, particularly given Aukus, which has made Australia a greater first-strike target while billions of dollars are being shovelled towards Trump.
As Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, noted at Davos, "the old order is not coming back." It's time for middle powers like Australia to act together and take control of their own destiny rather than waiting for hope to be dangled in front of them. The new normal under Trump demands more than just goodwill and cooperation; it requires a willingness to adapt and respond to the changing global landscape.
In this context, Australia must reassess its relationship with the US and consider alternative partnerships that prioritize mutual respect and trust. Anything less would leave the country vulnerable to being on the menu in the great game of global politics.
Trump's actions are no longer seen as provocative or unpredictable but as the new normal, where he wields his influence to achieve his goals without regard for international law or cooperation. This approach has profound implications for Australia, which relies heavily on its alliance with the US and the rules-based order that has protected peace in Western Europe for nearly 80 years.
The Atlantic alliance is evaporating before our eye, and Trump's actions are a significant contributor to this trend. By abandoning traditional norms of diplomacy and international cooperation, he has sent a message that power and influence can be achieved through strength and coercion rather than negotiation and compromise.
This shift in global politics has left Australia marooned, struggling to find its place in a world where the rules no longer apply. The country's own alliance with the US is under scrutiny, particularly given Aukus, which has made Australia a greater first-strike target while billions of dollars are being shovelled towards Trump.
As Mark Carney, the Canadian prime minister, noted at Davos, "the old order is not coming back." It's time for middle powers like Australia to act together and take control of their own destiny rather than waiting for hope to be dangled in front of them. The new normal under Trump demands more than just goodwill and cooperation; it requires a willingness to adapt and respond to the changing global landscape.
In this context, Australia must reassess its relationship with the US and consider alternative partnerships that prioritize mutual respect and trust. Anything less would leave the country vulnerable to being on the menu in the great game of global politics.