Foreign Affairs: Trump's pressure on Latin America, Canada may backfire

In a recent article, Foreign Affairs unveils that US President Donald Trump’s use of pressure and threats towards Canada and Latin American nations to bolster American influence may backfire.

Matias Spektor, head of the International Relations Center at Brazil’s Getúlio Vargas Foundation, argues in his article that while Trump's tactics could lead to short-term concessions, they will not secure lasting influence for the United States in the region.

He stresses that Trump demands a great deal but offers little in return, noting that his approach of threats and intimidation is not a solid foundation for sustainable leadership.

The article highlights the growing trend of regional countries shifting away from their traditional ties with the US, opting instead to develop stronger relationships with other powers, especially China. Despite its economic reliance on the US, Canada has increasingly pursued trade relations with the European Union and Asian countries. 

Meanwhile, Argentina and Brazil have continued to strengthen their partnerships with China. Even Panama, which initially yielded to US pressure and withdrew from China’s “Belt and Road Initiative” has not fully cut its ties with Beijing, further exemplifying the changing dynamics in the region.

By Naila Huseynova