Wars in the Middle East and Europe, as well as the ongoing rivalry with China, have been and will continue to be key issues for U.S. diplomats, regardless of who wins the November presidential elections. As the White House Bureau Chief, Patsy Widakuswara, takes a closer look at the foreign policy priorities of the two candidates, Joe Biden and Donald Trump, it is clear that both have different approaches to handling these complex international challenges.
Starting with the current President, Donald Trump, his foreign policy has been characterized by a more isolationist and America-first approach. He has made it clear that he believes in putting the interests of the United States above all else, even if it means breaking away from traditional alliances and agreements. This has been evident in his decisions to withdraw from the Iran nuclear deal, the Paris climate agreement, and the World Health Organization. Trump has also been vocal about his desire to reduce the U.S.’s involvement in conflicts in the Middle East and Europe, often citing the high cost of military intervention.
On the other hand, Joe Biden’s foreign policy priorities revolve around rebuilding alliances and restoring America’s role as a global leader. He has been critical of Trump’s isolationist approach and has promised to rejoin the Iran nuclear deal and the Paris climate agreement if elected. Biden also plans to work closely with allies to address issues such as terrorism, nuclear proliferation, and human rights violations. He has also expressed a desire to end the U.S.’s involvement in the war in Afghanistan and to focus on diplomatic solutions to conflicts in the Middle East.
One of the biggest challenges facing U.S. diplomats is the ongoing rivalry with China. Both candidates have acknowledged the need to address this issue, but their approaches differ. Trump has taken a more confrontational stance, imposing tariffs and engaging in a trade war with China. He has also been critical of China’s handling of the COVID-19 pandemic and has accused them of unfair trade practices. On the other hand, Biden has proposed a more multilateral approach, working with allies to put pressure on China to change its behavior. He has also emphasized the need to invest in American industries to compete with China’s growing economic power.
In the Middle East, the U.S. faces a complex web of conflicts and alliances. The ongoing war in Syria, the Israeli-Palestinian conflict, and the threat of terrorism are just some of the issues that require careful diplomacy. Trump’s decision to withdraw U.S. troops from Syria and his controversial peace plan for Israel and Palestine have been met with criticism from both sides. Biden, on the other hand, has promised to work towards a two-state solution for Israel and Palestine and to continue the fight against terrorism in the region.
In Europe, the U.S. faces challenges such as Brexit, the rise of nationalism, and tensions with Russia. Trump’s relationship with European leaders has been strained, with disagreements over trade, climate change, and NATO. Biden has promised to strengthen alliances with European countries and to work together to address global issues such as climate change and Russian aggression.
No matter who wins the November presidential elections, it is clear that the U.S. will continue to face complex foreign policy challenges in the Middle East, Europe, and with China. Both candidates have different approaches to these issues, and it will be up to the American people to decide which path they want their country to take.
In conclusion, the role of U.S. diplomats in addressing these international challenges cannot be underestimated. They will play a crucial role in implementing the foreign policy priorities of the next President and working towards a more peaceful and prosperous world. As the world watches closely, let us hope that the U.S. will continue to be a strong and respected leader on the global stage, no matter who sits in the White House.
