Donald Trump’s leadership choices continue to stir fierce debate. His supporters claim he is a bold reformer, while critics argue he is a destabilising force at home and abroad. From economic nationalism to foreign policy decisions, his approach often prioritises disruption over long-term strategy.
One of his most alarming moves is the decision to cut funding for antiretroviral (ARV) drugs in many poor countries. For millions living with HIV, this will mean the loss of life-saving treatment. While some of Trump’s leadership choices have had clear consequences, others – like this policy shift – could trigger devastating humanitarian and geopolitical crises. Here are three key actions contributing to growing instability.
Cutting Access to ARVs in Poor Countries
For years, US funding has been instrumental in providing free ARVs to low-income nations, particularly through initiatives like PEPFAR (President’s Emergency Plan for Aids Relief). However, Trump’s leadership choices have undermined these efforts. His administration moved to restrict funding, citing budget priorities and shifting policy goals.
The impact is catastrophic. Cutting ARV access in resource-poor countries will lead to a surge in HIV-related deaths and new infections. Public health systems will collapse under increased pressure, and economic instability will follow. Additionally, weakened health infrastructure in these nations could create breeding grounds for other pandemics, posing a global threat.
Beyond the humanitarian crisis, this decision also erodes US influence in regions where aid has historically fostered goodwill. China and Russia, both eager to expand their geopolitical reach, may step in with alternative support, further diminishing America’s global leadership.
Trade Wars and Economic Isolation
Trump’s aggressive trade policies, particularly tariffs on Chinese imports, were framed as a strategy to protect American jobs. In practice, they sparked retaliatory tariffs, damaging US farmers, manufacturers, and consumers. Disrupted supply chains and soaring costs led to long-term economic uncertainty.
Worse still, these trade disputes pushed many nations to strengthen economic ties with China, Russia, and emerging powers. Instead of reinforcing US economic dominance, Trump’s leadership choices have accelerated a shift away from American influence in global trade.
Withdrawing from Global Agreements
Another defining feature of Trump’s leadership choices was his withdrawal from key international agreements. Exiting the Paris Climate Accord weakened US environmental leadership, while abandoning the Iran nuclear deal increased tensions in the Middle East. His decision to pull the US out of the World Health Organization during a global pandemic further eroded America’s role in global crisis management.
These moves didn’t just isolate the US – they created power vacuums that rival nations quickly filled. While Trump’s supporters argue that he was prioritising national sovereignty, the long-term effect has been a weakened ability to influence global events.
The False Promise of Isolationism
Trump fails to recognise that instability and a global health crisis will not leave the US immune. Cutting ARV funding and withdrawing from global agreements may seem like distant problems, but history has shown that pandemics, economic crises, and security threats do not respect borders.
His dejavu approach – repeating the same isolationist mistakes of the past – will have serious implications at home. A global health crisis left unchecked will eventually strain America’s healthcare system, disrupt supply chains, and create economic shockwaves that hit American families harder than expected. Ignoring these interconnected risks is not just short-sighted but dangerously self-destructive.
A Path to Stability
If Trump seeks lasting prosperity for the US, his leadership choices must prioritise stability over disruption. Strengthening alliances, restoring global trust, and crafting trade policies that benefit American workers without alienating key partners would be critical steps. Without such changes, his legacy may not be one of fixing America, but of accelerating instability on a global scale.
ALSO CHECK OUT: US Elections 2024: 5 reasons Harris is a thorn in Trump’s presidential bid
