Written By David Gomez
During my early school years, there was one boy who always seemed to dominate the playground. He was physically larger and louder than the rest, and he easily oscillated between teasing and threatening. He would joke one moment and threaten the next, demanding snacks or toys from the smaller kids as if they were owed to him. This childhood bully, who ruled through a mix of fear and charisma, reminds me strikingly of U.S. President-elect Donald Trump, whose recent provocative comments and open threats are causing international unease as we step into 2025.
Trump’s recent offhand comments about making Canada the “51st state” and imposing heavy tariffs on its exports are not mere words. They signal a deeper, alarming willingness to disrupt established diplomatic norms and challenge the international order. While these remarks can be seen as typical Trump theatrics, they hint at a return to an unpredictable and aggressive foreign policy that could have direct and destabilizing impacts on international relations, especially with Canada.
Justin Trudeau finds himself navigating a complex and challenging political landscape. While criticism of his leadership has been a factor in shaping public opinion, these critiques do not justify or warrant the kind of invasive and disrespectful comments from Trump, which fundamentally disrespect the principles of sovereignty and mutual respect between nations.
Moreover, the implications of Trump’s potential second term extend far beyond North America. His apparent reluctance to continue supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression could end the conflict on terms favourable to Russian President Vladimir Putin, potentially emboldening authoritarian regimes worldwide. Furthermore, the situation in the Middle East is likely to worsen, with Trump’s administration expected to support Israel unconditionally, despite escalating violence in Palestine that risks leading to further humanitarian crises.
This shift in U.S. foreign policy under Trump represents a troubling trend towards nationalism that could reshape the dynamics of global diplomacy. For countries like Canada, which have thrived on multilateralism and diplomatic cooperation, this signals a move towards a more volatile global stage, where economic pressures and unilateral decisions could redefine long-standing alliances.
Trump’s rhetoric extends beyond Canada, casting a shadow over several other nations. His threats to regain control of the Panama Canal have stirred significant unrest in Panama, challenging the longstanding agreement that handed control of this critical passage back to the Panamanian government in 1999. Such statements not only strain U.S.-Panama relations but also disregard international norms that respect national sovereignty.
Similarly, Trump’s absurd idea of “buying” Greenland (an autonomous Danish territory) has resurrected tensions with Denmark, illustrating an arrogant disregard for the diplomatic processes which typically govern discussions about international territories. These scenarios highlight a broader pattern of interventionist and dismissive attitudes toward international partnerships, which could significantly alter global diplomatic relations if Trump’s proposed policies were implemented.
Canada’s federal political future is increasingly uncertain. The interplay between the domestic policy challenges faced by Trudeau and the international pressures exerted by Trump’s aggressive stance creates a complex context for the upcoming political contests in Canada.
As we move through January 2025, the international community watches with bated breath. The actions and decisions in the coming weeks will critically define the trajectory of Canada’s political landscape and its relationship with a potentially adversarial United States. The question now is how global leaders and citizens will respond to ensure that aggressive, unilateral tactics do not come to define the next chapter of international relations.
Navigating this fraught landscape requires vigilance and strategic diplomacy. Canadians, and indeed all global citizens, must advocate for a proactive and principled approach to this kind of topics. This month is not only pivotal for Trudeau’s political survival but also for the broader capability of Canada to safeguard its interests against an increasingly unpredictable international backdrop.
The playground dynamics of my youth have now morphed into global geopolitical issues, but the fundamental challenge remains the same: to stand firm against bullies and uphold the values of respectful and engaged diplomacy.
