America on the Path to Global Isolation
Trump aimed to sign major trade deals in his first 100 days, expecting other nations to fall in line. Six months later, only skeletal agreements with the UK, Vietnam and Indonesia have materialized. Most countries are unwilling to sign deals that ignore their own interests.
Trump reportedly pressured India to halt retaliation against Pakistan after a terror attack, threatening to withhold a trade deal. India paused its response but is now stalling on the rumoured $500 billion trade pact, unwilling to appear coerced.
China, with a $400 billion trade surplus per year, has refused to negotiate. Tied deeply into U.S. supply chains, it retaliated against chip sanctions by withholding rare earth exports—leaving the U.S. vulnerable as its stockpiles dwindle.
Europe, Canada, and Mexico have rejected Trump’s terms. In response, he imposed tariffs on steel and aluminum, and is threatening more. These allies are open to talks but not under threats.
In total, Trump has alienated over 90% of global trade partners. Broad tariffs could spark shortages, inflation, and deep international isolation for America. With the August 1st deadline looming, the choice is clear: escalate toward crisis or step back and negotiate in good faith.
