Trump Ushers in Era of Empires and Coercion, Shattering Post-War Global Order

PARIS – Donald Trump’s actions, including the capture of Venezuela’s Nicolas Maduro and creating a “Board of Peace,” are dismantling the post-World War II global consensus, fostering a new era of empires and coercion. Brazilian adviser Celso Amorim warns of a perilous transition, emphasizing mutual respect in U.S. relations. A Filipino diplomat notes reluctance to challenge the “emperor,” while Taiwanese lawmakers lament broken international norms but hope U.S. force deters aggression from China. In Mexico, lawmaker Ricardo Monreal rejects subordination despite economic dependence.

Era of Empires

China and Russia may feel empowered, but threatened nations like Taiwan and the Philippines seek U.S. protection in the Indo-Pacific. European officials decry paralysis, urging adaptation to a “Darwinian” world, with German parliamentarian Armin Laschet advocating for preserving the U.S.-Europe alliance and the UN’s role amid nuclear risks. Colombia’s deputy foreign minister highlights the UN’s muted response, underscoring multilateralism’s limitations in this evolving landscape.