Trump’s policies create divisions between US and Europe

Source: The post Trump’s policies create divisions between US and Europe has been created, based on the article “C Raja Mohan writes: Has Trumpism broken the Collective West?” published in “Indian Express” on 20th February 2025.

UPSC Syllabus Topic: GS Paper2- International Relations-Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests.

Context: The article discusses growing divisions between the U.S. and Europe after Trump’s return. It explains how Trump’s policies on security, trade, and politics challenge Western unity. Russia and China benefit from this split. India remains cautious and focuses on its own interests.

For detailed information on Trump’s Second Term Reshapes America and World read this article hear

What Are the Recent Shifts in U.S. and European Relations?

1. Trump’s Peace Talks with Russia: U.S. President Trump initiated direct negotiations with Russia over Ukraine, bypassing Kyiv and Brussels.
2. Shock in Europe: Vice President JD Vance strongly criticized European mainstream parties at the Munich Security Conference, leaving some allies in tears.
3. Security Commitments: Trump wants to reduce America’s security role in Europe, raising concerns among NATO allies.
4. Trade Policies: Trump argues that the existing global trade system no longer benefits American workers and promotes bilateral trade deals.
5. Political Divide: Trump-backed conservatives are challenging liberal policies in the West, with figures like Elon Musk supporting right-wing parties in Europe.

How Has Russia Responded to the Western Divide?

1. Russia has promoted the idea of a “Collective West” to unite its people against Europe and the U.S.
2. The ongoing peace talks with the U.S. are viewed by Russia as a chance to regain its significant position in Europe, a status it held post-World War II but lost after the Soviet Union collapsed.
3. Russia sees the division within the West as an opportunity to restore its influence in the European regional order.
4. The expected summit between Putin and Trump could further Russia’s goal to reintegrate into Western economic and security structures.

What Role Does China Play in the Situation?

1. Exploiting Divisions: China benefits from the growing divide between the U.S. and its European allies, which weakens the “Collective West.”
2. Strategic Probing: China, like Russia, repeatedly tests the gaps in U.S. alliances, especially in Asia.
3. Potential Gains: An American withdrawal from Europe and Asia aligns with China’s strategic interests.
4. Negotiating with the U.S.: Despite criticizing the “Collective West,” China, like Russia, is eager to strike deals with Washington when beneficial.

How Is India Positioning Itself Amid These Changes?

1. India’s Cautious Approach: India no longer follows past anti-Western propaganda from Russia and China. It now critically assesses their rhetoric.
2. Engaging with Western Powers: India does not fully align with either side but actively seeks strategic agreements with Western nations.
3. Understanding the West’s Internal Conflict: India recognizes the growing divide between the U.S. and Europe and sees opportunities in these changes.
4. Seeking a Grand Bargain: Like Moscow and Beijing, India is ready to negotiate favorable deals with Western powers to protect its national interests.

Question for practice:

Evaluate how the growing divisions between the U.S. and Europe under Trump’s leadership impact global power dynamics, particularly in relation to Russia, China, and India.