The Trump campaign’s philosophy of putting America first is more than a catchphrase. The state department has now received a ground-breaking policy directive. When dealing with global situations, the directive prioritizes all of America’s first interests. Is this a policy that can be maintained while acknowledging that the world is constantly changing?
Redefining Priorities
The “America First Policy Directive,” announced on January 20, 2025, marks a strategic shift in US foreign policy. This directive directs the Secretary of State to revise the Department’s policies to prioritize American interests. It seeks to integrate US priorities into international relations while adhering to existing legal frameworks and remaining fiscally neutral.
The order focuses on protecting US citizens from foreign nationals who use immigration laws to commit terrorism. The order focuses on protecting US citizens from foreign nationals who use immigration laws to commit terrorism.
First Directive to the Secretary of State, Marco Rubio
“As soon as practicable, the Secretary of State shall issue guidance bringing the Department of State’s policies, programs, personnel, and operations in line with an America First foreign policy, which puts America and its… pic.twitter.com/VPwMxESouY
— Anna Matson (@AnnaRMatson) January 21, 2025
Policy Implementation
President Trump emphasizes “Principled Realism,” which aims to protect American citizens while promoting strong national sovereignty. Enhanced vetting procedures are required to verify entry processes for people from countries with insufficient information. The Secretary of State must identify such countries and submit a report within 60 days.
According to Morgan Ortagus, “An America First foreign policy, often misconstrued as isolationism, stands apart from the past 30 years of foreign policy by Republican and Democratic presidents. It promotes the interests of Americans while actively engaging with the international community through strong alliances.”
Trump’s platform calls for a review of geopolitical strategies against groups such as ISIS. Significant territorial losses and battlefield victories have resulted from a targeted approach to deterring international threats.
Finally, a return to an America First foreign policy approach:
“Under President Trump, the top priority of the United States Department of State will be the United States.” – @MarcoRubio pic.twitter.com/JVPYCx14xZ
— Steve Cortes (@CortesSteve) January 15, 2025
Strengthening Global Cooperation
The America First policy focuses on developing a long-term balance of power in Asia, countering China’s growing military presence. It emphasizes the importance of diplomatic engagement in resolving conflicts between geopolitical rivals. This stance is not isolationist but rather promotes strong international alliances while prioritizing US interests.
Evan Sankey argues, “The United States of America exists to protect the natural rights and prosperity of the American people. It is not an institution of international security, and it endangers itself by behaving like one.”
The directive also criticizes ongoing international conflicts, blaming issues like the Ukraine crisis on the previous administration’s foreign policies. A strategic realignment is proposed to ensure that foreign policy reflects the primary goal of American prosperity and security.
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