Why the World Needs a Strong Leader

The global landscape is becoming increasingly unstable, demanding political leaders who not only possess foresight but also adapt swiftly to rapid changes. The U.S. president wields enormous influence over global equilibrium, and the choice between Donald Trump and Kamala Harris in 2024 could determine the path the world takes in the coming decades.

This article will analyze Trump and Harris’s approaches to pressing issues, review their promises, and forecast whose approach may prove more effective in combating global threats.

Political Promises and Approaches of Trump and Harris

Donald Trump: “America First” and Isolationist Policy

Throughout his career, Donald Trump has established himself as a politician who prioritizes U.S. national interests over global commitments. His well-known slogan, “America First,” embodies a desire to avoid international conflicts that do not directly threaten U.S. security or economic interests. During his campaign, he promised to:

• Limit U.S. participation in international coalitions, reserving involvement for only the most critical agreements.
• Reform trade policy, focusing on deals that benefit the U.S., even if they contradict global market rules.
• Return manufacturing to the U.S., creating jobs and reducing dependency on imports, especially from China.

Trump also pledged to maintain America’s military strength, concentrating it on national security. His approach can be described as isolationist, striving for U.S. independence while often criticizing international organizations like the UN and NATO as part of his strategy.

Kamala Harris: Restoring Alliances and Prioritizing Diplomacy

Kamala Harris represents a more traditional foreign policy approach associated with the Democratic Party. Her campaign is centered on restoring U.S. international alliances, a key theme under the Biden administration. Her main promises include:

• Supporting allies, particularly NATO, as a cornerstone of stability in Europe.
• Rebuilding relationships with Asian and European countries to create a more unified response to China’s growing influence.
• Launching support programs for conflict-affected nations, while leading in addressing climate change, which she views as a cause of global instability.

Harris also aims to safeguard democracy as a top priority for the U.S., believing that America’s active global leadership should focus on protecting human rights and strengthening democratic institutions worldwide.

Global Challenges and Potential Actions by Trump and Harris

The russia-Ukraine War

The conflict in Ukraine has become the most severe crisis in Europe since World War II. Trump and Harris approach this conflict in fundamentally different ways.

• Trump advocates limited intervention. He has criticized the expenses incurred in supporting Ukraine, viewing them as unnecessary taxpayer burdens. He has repeatedly suggested the need for a peace agreement, even if it would involve Ukraine losing part of its territory.
• Harris strongly supports Ukraine, viewing it as the central battleground against authoritarian regimes. She fully endorses providing weapons and humanitarian aid and considers Ukraine vital to Europe’s stability.

The russia-Iran Alliance

moscow’s closer ties with Iran present another potentially dangerous factor. Iran supplies military support to russia, strengthening its position in the war.

• Trump favors maximum pressure on Iran through sanctions and isolation, convinced that economic pressure will force Tehran to sever ties with russia. His administration had already worked on tightening sanctions against Iran, a policy he would likely continue.
• Harris, on the other hand, advocates a multilateral approach, enlisting other countries in addressing the Iranian issue. She emphasizes the importance of restoring diplomacy while supporting stronger sanctions if Iran persists in aiding russia.

North Korean Troops in Ukraine

The presence of North Korean soldiers on Ukrainian territory exacerbates the threat North Korea poses on the global stage.

• Trump has a unique approach to North Korea, believing that personal meetings and negotiations can prevent escalation. Known for his unexpected diplomatic moves, like his meeting with Kim Jong-un, he might attempt a "personal" approach.
• Harris supports strict sanctions on North Korea, focusing on the need for the regime's international isolation.

China’s Influence

China seeks to position itself as a global leader, challenging U.S. dominance while expanding its economic and military reach.

• Trump vowed to curb China’s economic rise by imposing tariffs, restricting technology companies, and promoting domestic manufacturing.
• Harris supports a more diplomatic approach, building coalitions to counterbalance China, particularly with Pacific region nations. She understands that economic boycotts may only heighten tensions.

Whose Approach Is More Likely to Succeed?

Economic Implications

Trump’s isolationist approach may reduce U.S. international responsibilities but could also diminish American influence, possibly reducing the country’s role as the “global policeman”. Meanwhile, Harris’s focus on diplomacy rather than conflict could open more opportunities for the U.S. in international trade and economic cooperation.

Geopolitical Implications

Regarding global security, Trump’s approach might weaken international institutions, while Harris’s policies support strong coalitions with European and Asian partners, which could form the backbone of global stability.

Conclusion: Which Approach Best Suits Today’s World?

In conclusion, both Trump’s and Harris’s approaches have strengths and risks. Trump could bring the U.S. short-term stability and economic growth through isolationism, but he risks alienating allies. Conversely, Harris has the potential to enhance the U.S.’s role as an international leader but would need considerable resources to maintain global stability.

The world needs a leader who is not only willing to speak but also able to act, ensuring peace and stability.