Foreign policy was relegated to the sidelines for many voters this election season, despite the United States’ growing interdependence on other nations. I believe it is important to analyze how both Vice President Kamala Harris and former President Donald Trump diverge on foreign policy, to see what will be and what could have been implemented in the wake of the election.
The United States’ system of alliances, which was created during the Cold War, has come to serve a new purpose: combatting the rising threats of China and Russia as they grow more aggressive, more aligned and seek out greater ties with countries also in opposition to America.
The most important part of this system is the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), of which Trump has been heavily critical. On the election trail, Trump said Russia could do “whatever the hell they want” to countries that didn’t spend enough money on defense. In an alliance that relies on a collective agreement to defend other member states, this language is deeply dangerous. On the other hand, Harris has shown continuity with President Biden, supporting NATO while encouraging its members to increase their defense spending.
When it comes to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine, there is also a clear difference in policy between the candidates. Harris wants to continue sending military aid to Ukraine, while Trump has repeatedly emphasized the war in Ukraine should end but hasn’t clarified who he wants to win. Senator JD Vance, Trump’s vice presidential candidate, outlined what he believes Trump’s peace deal in Ukraine would look like: Russia retaining the land they occupy and Ukraine being barred from joining NATO. This type of deal would likely damage the territorial integrity of Ukraine, making it more vulnerable to future attacks and failing to provide sufficient guarantees for Ukraine’s independence.
If the United States takes a step back internationally, it is important to recognize who will fill that gap. At a time when the United States is facing great threats, it is vital for America to stand with its allies, not against them.
