'TRUMP IS AT HIS ABSOLUTE WORST IN A CRISIS': THREE COLUMNISTS IMAGINE THE WORLD AHEAD

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The article is a roundtable discussion moderated by Patrick Healy, deputy Opinion editor of *The New York Times*, featuring columnists David French, Lydia Polgreen, and Bret Stephens. It explores challenges and opportunities facing America during President Biden's final days in office and the incoming administration of Donald Trump.(Unlocked gift link) Key topics include national security, foreign policy, and the leadership qualities required to navigate a chaotic global landscape.

The columnists discuss a range of topics, including the global instability stemming from wars in Ukraine and Gaza, escalating threats from a newly aligned "axis of repression" consisting of Iran, China, Russia, and North Korea, and the impact of Trump's past and potential future leadership. French emphasizes the paradoxical state of the world: key adversaries are weaker, but global dangers have intensified. Stephens critiques the Biden administration's foreign policy missteps but also highlights its successes, like supporting Ukraine and fostering defense alliances in Asia. Polgreen underscores the administration's unpreparedness in crises and laments America's failure to lead a more inclusive international system.

As Trump prepares to take office, concerns arise about his leadership style, described as narcissistic and impulsive. His hardline stance on Iran and the Abraham Accords are seen as successes, but his inconsistency and susceptibility to manipulation raise fears about his handling of China, Ukraine, and other global issues. The panel identifies critical challenges, such as managing China relations and addressing homegrown extremism among veterans, while also noting potential opportunities, like leveraging Iran's weakened state.

The discussion concludes with varying opinions on Trump's future impact. While some foresee further disruptions to America's global standing, others argue that constructive disruption could address longstanding issues. The overarching theme is uncertainty about whether Trump's approach will stabilize or further fracture the global order.

French, David, et al. "Opinion | 'Trump Is at His Absolute Worst in a Crisis': Three Columnists Imagine the World Ahead." *The New York Times*, 10 Jan. 2025,Unlocked gift link: