This article examines President Joe Biden’s attempts to leave a lasting legacy through environmental policy as he bans oil drilling in coastal U.S. waters. It explores how President-elect Donald Trump may alter foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine, NATO, and Israel, amid challenges in Congress and the global landscape of climate change initiatives.
President Joe Biden, in his final days in office, is advocating for a ban on oil drilling in coastal waters of the United States, including the Atlantic and Pacific Oceans and the Gulf of Mexico. This initiative appears to be part of his broader objective to solidify a legacy aimed at achieving net-zero carbon emissions by 2050. Observers note that this ban is legally protected from revocation by President-elect Donald Trump, who has historically denied the existence of climate change and has not committed to addressing environmental issues.
Globally, countries are engaged in efforts to combat climate change. If President Trump dismisses the climate initiatives advanced by the Biden Administration, the United States risks international isolation, particularly as it is the largest greenhouse gas emitter. Additionally, Biden has been a staunch supporter of Ukraine in its conflict with Russia, a commitment that Trump is anticipated to revise. However, it remains uncertain if Trump’s pragmatic approach, which contrasts with traditional democratic ideals, will enable him to utilize his rapport with President Vladimir Putin to facilitate an end to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
On NATO, Trump advocates for increased defense spending by European member states to 2% of their respective GDPs, a target likely challenging for many nations, especially given the varied economic conditions across Europe. Concerning Israel, despite Trump’s pro-business stance, he will likely maintain the United States’ longstanding support. While the Biden Administration did not reduce military aid to Israel, it did apply pressure for a humanitarian ceasefire amid the recent conflict in Gaza. Biden’s administration even threatened to halt military assistance if Israel continued its offensive against civilians, although actual aid was not suspended.
Trump’s foreign policy focus may face obstacles, particularly in critical geopolitical arenas such as Ukraine, the Middle East, and Taiwan. His economic strategy primarily revolves around imposing tariffs against various global trade partners. However, when addressing issues beyond trade, he may resort to traditional American foreign policy stances that promote democracy despite potential discrepancies between policy and action. Furthermore, Trump’s positions may not be endorsed seamlessly by a Republican majority in Congress, as lawmakers possess a nuanced understanding of policy-making that may counter Trump’s simplistic approaches, requiring more negotiation and compromise within his party.
The article discusses the political dynamics as U.S. President Joe Biden concludes his term and President-elect Donald Trump prepares to assume office. It highlights Biden’s environmental initiatives aimed at combating climate change, his support for Ukraine amid the conflict with Russia, and the traditional U.S. stance in foreign policy matters concerning alliances and military aid. As Biden seeks to solidify his legacy, the implications of Trump’s policies and governance style pose significant questions about the future direction of U.S. domestic and foreign policies.
In conclusion, President Biden’s final actions reflect a concerted effort to address climate change and maintain robust international alliances as he leaves office. Trump’s incoming administration presents uncertainties regarding continuity in foreign policy and environmental practices. The complexity of these issues underscores the challenges that Trump may face as he navigates the intricacies of policy-making while balancing the expectations of his party and the global community.
Original Source: www.gulftoday.ae
