Trump Era Unilateralism and China’s Expanding Global Role
Great powers do not decline because they are conquered, but because they abandon the responsibilities of leadership. In this context, the global order is changing. The country that once shaped the structure of the new world order is now backtracking from many of its commitments and obligations. The recent policies of the Trump administration toward other countries are no hidden matter. The revival of expansionism, imperial tendencies, a stick policy approach, economic nationalism, and withdrawal from multilateral organizations is undoubtedly creating space for China to fill the vacuum left by the retreat of United States leadership. This realist American approach toward neighboring countries and global organizations is reshaping the existing structure that was based on mutual coexistence and cooperation.
The normalization of expansionist rhetoric by the Trump administration, from proposals to purchase Greenland to actions perceived as violations of Venezuela’s sovereignty, suggests that the US is inadvertently creating an opportunity for China to present itself as a reliable partner to countries that emphasize sovereignty and international law. This shift is eroding America’s soft power, which has long been a key pillar of its global influence. In contrast, China is promoting its principle of noninterference on the global stage. At the same time, China’s own actions in regions such as the South China Sea or Xinjiang are increasingly viewed within a broader context of how great powers assert their interests in the international system.
The US has also announced plans to withdraw from dozens of international organizations and UN affiliated bodies. These institutions once played a central role in sustaining a US led world order. Today, many of them face uncertainty as the country that helped establish them steps back from active engagement. In this environment, China has increased its presence in climate forums, global health initiatives, and discussions on digital governance. China is gradually shaping global norms through its own development model. While the US withdrawal does not collapse the system, it does allow greater space for alternative leadership to emerge.
Simultaneously, the US approach of economic nationalism is distancing partners and affecting global trade norms. The continued imposition of tariffs on both allies and rivals under the Trump administration has affected Washington’s image as a guardian of open trade. In contrast, China’s Belt and Road Initiative, despite concerns related to transparency and debt, signals its effort to connect countries through infrastructure and economic cooperation. Through pragmatic trade engagement, China is expanding its global economic footprint. Recent developments, such as Canada’s decision to import electric vehicles from China, illustrate this trend.
The world appears to be evolving toward parallel systems, a US led technological and security sphere and a China led production and economic integration model. Many countries will attempt to navigate both systems rather than choose sides.
Global governance is also becoming a field of competition. Technological rivalry in areas such as 5G, artificial intelligence, and climate governance is intensifying, with the US seeking to contain China’s influence while China continues to expand its technological and economic reach.
One of the most significant aspects of the future is the perceived volatility of US foreign policy. Under the Trump administration, the US is seen by many as a less predictable partner in upholding international norms. Although changes in future administrations may alter this approach, repeated shifts toward unilateral policies could weaken alliances and create further opportunities for China and other major powers to take on larger roles.
The superpower that once built an international system based on cooperation and shared norms is now reconsidering many of its commitments. As the US retreats from certain aspects of global leadership, other powers are stepping forward to fill the space. However, the future will not automatically belong to China, given its own domestic and external challenges, nor will the US retain unquestioned supremacy. The evolving world order will likely depend on a correction toward coexistence, cooperation, and mutual understanding beyond any single administration.
Disclaimer: The views and opinions expressed in this article are solely those of the author and do not necessarily reflect the editorial stance, policies, or official position of The Spine Times.
Uroosa Khan
The author is an independent researcher having keen interest in foreign policy, geopolitics, and international relations.
