Even under Trump, the American system of alliances is fundamental for Indo-Pacific security. That means staying the course on joint initiatives such as Aukus
-
Get our breaking news email, free app or daily news podcast
Donald Trump is not a big believer in alliances or the mutuality principle. Life for him is a zero-sum game of winners and losers. That’s the thinking behind his tariff and security policies, as well as his latest outbursts at allies including Australia for not helping in the war.
He has lashed out at allies in Europe and the Indo-Pacific because he was frustrated by the course of the war. He never intended for allies and partners to be co-opted so did not brief them or formally request assistance. He thought America and Israel could go it alone – likely because he did not want the headache of having to coordinate operations with coalition partners for the perceived marginal benefit of their contributions.