**Trump’s Promise: A Peacemaker or a Provoker?**
When Donald Trump took office for the second time in January, he made a bold promise to be a peacemaker and unifier. However, just over 100 days later, it’s unclear if his actions are making the world a safer place or more volatile.
On one hand, Trump’s threats of “hell to pay” ultimatums to Hamas helped secure a Gaza ceasefire deal in January, albeit a short-lived one. He has also pushed Russian and Ukrainian officials back to the negotiating table, although little progress has been made beyond some important prisoner swaps.
But on the other hand, Russia is pounding Ukraine with the largest number of drones and missiles since its full-scale invasion in 2022, while Gaza’s Red Cross Field Hospital reports a surge in weapons-wounded patients. The situation in Syria also remains precarious, despite Trump’s announcement to lift punishing sanctions on the country at the urging of his Saudi ally.
**Complex Conflicts Demand More Than Bluster**
Trump’s approach to conflicts has been criticized for being more focused on grand gestures than nuanced diplomacy. His reliance on personal phone calls and bold threats may intimidate some leaders into negotiations, but it often doesn’t lead to sustainable peace deals.
“Deals take forever,” says Martin Griffiths, a former UN Under-Secretary General. “You have to start and you have to stay.” Trump’s preference for quick fixes over long-term solutions has raised concerns that his deals may not address the root causes of conflicts.
**The World is More Volatile Than Ever**
There are now more wars than ever in the world, according to David Harland, executive director of the Centre for Humanitarian Dialogue. While some conflicts have moved forward, others remain entrenched. Trump’s policies have also contributed to increased global tensions and a growing sense of unpredictability.
His “America First” approach has galvanized some countries, including those in NATO, to step up their military spending. However, his repeated threats to seize control of the Panama Canal, buy Greenland, and turn Canada into the 51st US state have stunned and scared capitals worldwide.
**A Debate Worth Having**
The BBC World Service is hosting a debate on whether Trump’s policies are making the world safer or more dangerous. The discussion will consider the rapidly changing international landscape during his presidency and what this means for global stability and security.
As the world grapples with complex conflicts, economic uncertainty, and shifting power dynamics, it’s essential to examine the consequences of Trump’s actions and their impact on global peace and security.
Read More @ www.bbc.com
