A Contribution by
Werner Hoffmann
– Democracy of the Center, Because Extremes Destroy Nations –
Since his return to the White House in January 2025, Donald Trump has implemented a series of measures that have sparked significant controversy both domestically and internationally. His policies weaken democratic institutions, exacerbate economic problems, and display aggressive imperialist tendencies.
While the general population suffers from rising prices and growing uncertainty, large corporations and the ultra-wealthy reap the benefits of his administration’s economic policies.
Domestic Policies: Erosion of Democracy and Economic Decline
Weakening Democratic Institutions
Trump signed an executive order titled “Ensuring Accountability of All Agencies,” which grants him the authority to interpret laws at his discretion and determine their enforcement. Critics see this as a clear step toward authoritarianism and a direct threat to the separation of powers.
Dismantling the Department of Education
Trump eliminated the Department of Education, removing nationwide education standards and federal funding programs for students. This decision disproportionately harms disadvantaged children and youth, as education funding is now entirely dependent on individual states.
Trade Wars and Rising Inflation
Trump imposed high tariffs on imports from Mexico, Canada, and China, leading to severe economic consequences:
• Higher Consumer Prices: Everyday goods, electronics, vehicles, and food products have become significantly more expensive as companies pass import costs onto consumers.
• Surging Inflation: Economists warn that rising inflation will hit low-income Americans the hardest and slow overall economic growth.
• Billionaire Profits: While average Americans struggle with increasing costs, large corporations benefit from tax cuts and stock buybacks facilitated by Trump’s economic policies.
Environmental Deregulation
The U.S. has once again withdrawn from the Paris Climate Agreement. Trump appointed lobbyists from the oil, gas, and chemical industries to lead the Environmental Protection Agency (EPA), significantly weakening environmental regulations. This accelerates environmental destruction and threatens the protection of natural resources.
Attacks on Civil Rights
Trump abolished diversity, equity, and inclusion programs and restricted LGBTQ+ rights. These measures undermine social cohesion and empower far-right populist movements.
–
Imperialist Ambitions: Trump’s Geopolitical Power Games
Annexation Plans: Greenland, Canada, and the Panama Canal
• Trump reiterated his desire to bring Greenland under U.S. control, threatening economic and military actions.
• He referred to Canada as a potential 51st state, causing international outrage. Canadian Prime Minister Justin Trudeau strongly rejected the idea.
• Trump demanded that the Panama Canal be returned to U.S. control, threatening economic sanctions against Panama.
Interference in International Conflicts
• Gaza Strip: Trump proposed placing the Gaza Strip under U.S. control and relocating its population—an outright violation of international law.
• Ukraine War: Trump demanded exclusive U.S. access to Ukraine’s natural resources, suspending military aid to Ukraine until compliance.
Destabilizing Europe
Trump actively supports far-right, nationalist, and libertarian parties in Europe to weaken traditional alliances and destabilize the EU. This includes financial contributions and open campaign support for extremist parties in France, Germany, and Italy.
–
The Potential Collapse of Trump’s System: U.S. 2.0’s Path to Isolation
Trump’s latest political maneuvers could lead to an internal collapse of his administration and push the U.S. 2.0 into an isolationist trap—especially if a global “Coalition of the Willing” forms, representing approximately 3 billion people.
U.S. 2.0, Russia, and Belarus: A Combined Population of 486 Million
The combined population of Trump’s America, Russia, and Belarus amounts to roughly 486 million people.
Reasons for the Potential Collapse and Isolation of the U.S. 2.0:
1. Unilateral Foreign Policy: Trump’s aggressive foreign policy—demanding control over the Panama Canal and interfering in conflicts like Gaza and Ukraine—alienates key diplomatic partners.
2. Trade Conflicts: High tariffs on imports from major trade partners fuel trade wars, eroding trust in the U.S. economy and disrupting global supply chains.
3. Undermining Traditional Alliances: By supporting far-right and nationalist movements in Europe, Trump weakens longstanding alliances, potentially driving European nations toward new strategic partnerships.
Formation of a “Coalition of the Willing” Against Trump’s U.S.
In response to Trump’s policies, nations could unite to form a “Coalition of the Willing,” built on multilateral cooperation and shared values. This coalition could represent around 3 billion people, further isolating the U.S. 2.0.
–
Conclusion:
Trump’s current policies risk leading the U.S. 2.0 into self-imposed isolation, while other nations strengthen their global standing through new alliances.
