Mirza Kashif Baig
As Donald Trump took the oath of office in January 2025 for his second term, his administration has swiftly implemented key policy promises. His proposed deliverables from economic policies to foreign affairs are being tested in real-time. This has examined the feasibility of his policies and their global ramifications based on developments up to February 23, 2025.
Economic revival and trade wars
Trump has reaffirmed his commitment to protectionist economic policies, implementing new tariffs on Chinese imports and renegotiating trade agreements with Mexico and Canada. While these measures are intended to boost American manufacturing, businesses, and global markets have resisted prolonged trade wars. The stock market has experienced volatility, and some corporations have begun lobbying for exemptions. Although Trump has followed through on his tariff promises, he has signaled a willingness to negotiate specific trade conditions, particularly with European allies. These trade wars could have mixed consequences for Pakistan. A shift in U.S.-China trade relations could open new economic opportunities for Pakistan as an alternative trading partner for China. However, if Trump’s policies disrupt global markets, Pakistan’s economy heavily reliant on trade with the U.S. and China could face instability.
Immigration and Border Control
One of Trump’s earliest executive actions in 2025 involved reinforcing border security and accelerating the construction of additional barriers along the U.S.-Mexico border. Mass deportation operations have begun, but they face significant logistical challenges, including a backlog in immigration courts and resistance from civil rights organizations. Several states have also filed legal challenges, potentially delaying full-scale implementation. Despite these hurdles, Trump has doubled down on his immigration stance, making it clear that he intends to push ahead with stricter border controls.
Stricter immigration policies could impact Pakistan’s diaspora in the U.S., particularly students and professionals seeking opportunities abroad. Increased scrutiny of visa approvals and work permits may limit mobility and economic remittances from Pakistani expatriates.
Foreign Policy: NATO, Ukraine, and isolationism
Trump has pressured NATO allies to increase their defense spending, warning of potential consequences for non-compliance. However, he has not followed through on threats to reduce U.S. commitments to NATO, mainly due to bipartisan resistance in Congress. Regarding Ukraine, Trump has scaled back U.S. military aid but has not entirely cut off support. Instead, his administration is exploring diplomatic negotiations with Russia to end the ongoing conflict, which has sparked both praise and concern from European allies. Additionally, Trump is trying to single out China and thin the relations between Russia and China A Nixonian doctrine repetition.
For Pakistan, Trump’s less interventionist approach to global conflicts may offer an opportunity to strengthen regional diplomacy. If the U.S. scales back its involvement in international disputes, Pakistan could be more significant in regional peace initiatives, particularly in Afghanistan and the Middle East.
Middle East policy and U.S.-Israel relations
The Trump administration has reaffirmed its strong alliance with Israel, expanding military and economic cooperation. His administration has also pushed for an extension of the Abraham Accords, encouraging more Arab nations to normalize relations with Israel. However, tensions with Iran have escalated following increased sanctions and military posturing. Some are concerned that continued aggressive policies toward Iran could lead to new conflicts in the region, disrupting global energy markets. It is also a question that Russia has a strategic ally of Iran. Will it be possible for Russia to break the alliance of Russia, China, and Iran, knowing the American intention?
For Pakistan, a more aggressive U.S. stance towards Iran could increase regional instability, particularly along Pakistan’s western border. Additionally, Pakistan’s traditional support for Palestine could create diplomatic challenges if U.S. policies favor Israel at the expense of Palestinian interests.
China and the Indo-pacific strategy
Trump has intensified economic and military measures against China, reinforcing alliances with Taiwan, Japan, and Australia. The administration has increased U.S. naval patrols in the South China Sea, leading to heightened tensions. While Trump has fulfilled his promise of taking a hardline stance on China, the economic decoupling process remains complex, with U.S. businesses pushing back against severe trade restrictions. His administration may need to recalibrate its approach to avoid economic disruptions.
For Pakistan, U.S.-China tensions could have profound effects. The Trump administration may scrutinize Pakistan’s strategic alignment with China, particularly through the China-Pakistan Economic Corridor (CPEC). Pakistan could face diplomatic pressure from the U.S. to limit its economic ties with China, forcing Islamabad to navigate a delicate balancing act.
Global institutions and U.S. withdrawal
Trump has continued criticizing international organizations such as the UN, WHO, and WTO, reducing U.S. financial contributions. However, he has stopped short of complete withdrawal, instead leveraging these institutions to negotiate better terms for U.S. involvement. His administration is also reassessing America’s role in global climate agreements, indicating that he may roll back previous commitments.
For Pakistan, a weakened role of international organizations due to U.S. disengagement may have economic and diplomatic repercussions. Reduced funding to UN agencies could impact development programs in Pakistan, including humanitarian aid and climate change initiatives.
Pentagon shake-up and its implications
In a major move, President Trump has overhauled the Pentagon’s leadership, replacing Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin with a more hawkish figure, citing the need for a stronger national defense strategy. Other key officials, including the Joint Chiefs of Staff Chairman, have also been replaced with individuals aligned with Trump’s America First vision. This shake-up has signaled a shift in defense strategy, with a renewed focus on countering China, reassessing military alliances, and reducing overseas troop commitments. Additionally, Trump has announced plans to restructure U.S. military aid programs, shifting priorities towards direct investments in domestic military infrastructure. The administration also considers significant troop withdrawals from certain Middle Eastern and European locations to reduce American military entanglements abroad.
For Pakistan, these changes in the Pentagon could lead to shifts in U.S. military engagement in South Asia. If Trump reduces military aid to regional allies or increases pressure on China militarily, Pakistan could find itself in a delicate position, needing to balance its strategic partnerships carefully. Additionally, any reduction in U.S. involvement in Afghanistan could increase security concerns along Pakistan’s western border.
Conclusion: What has trump followed through on?
Trump has aggressively pursued his campaign promises, particularly in trade, immigration, and China policy. However, constraints such as legal challenges, economic realities, and bipartisan opposition have moderated some of his actions. While he has implemented new tariffs, reinforced border policies, and exerted pressure on NATO, his administration has been forced to navigate diplomatic and economic pushback.
For Pakistan, Trump’s second term presents both challenges and opportunities. Economic policies affecting global trade could disrupt Pakistan’s financial stability, while diplomatic shifts may require a more strategic foreign policy approach from Islamabad. Additionally, U.S. disengagement from international institutions could weaken development programs in Pakistan, requiring increased regional cooperation.
As Trump’s second term progresses, the world remains watchful of how his policies will reshape global power dynamics. The next few months will determine whether his bold strategies will lead to sustained gains or unintended consequences for the U.S., its allies, and nations like Pakistan.
The author is Editor in Monthly Interaction.
Assessing Trump’s deliverables: feasibility and global impact
