Over the past year, the global community has witnessed Donald Trump's second term as president transform into what many describe as a blatant campaign of self-enrichment. This period has been marked by a series of controversial actions that have strained international relations and raised ethical concerns.
Greenland Tariff Threats and Backtracking
In recent days, Trump escalated tensions by threatening to impose tariffs of up to 25% on a bloc of European countries. This move was conditional on Denmark agreeing to sell Greenland to the United States. The president's demands were accompanied by provocative communications, including texts to Norway's prime minister linking the issue to his failure to win the Nobel Peace Prize.
Trump further inflamed the situation by sharing AI-generated memes on social media, depicting the annexation of Greenland as US territory. One image showed him planting a flag on the island, while another presented an expanded map of the US including Canada and Venezuela.
Davos Speech and Crisis Defusal
However, in a significant shift, Trump backed away from these tariff threats during a bombastic speech at the World Economic Forum in Davos. He announced that he had reached "the framework of a future deal" on Greenland with the NATO secretary general, effectively beginning to defuse a global crisis of his own making.
This episode underscores Trump's transactional approach to governance, where he has leveraged the immense power of the American state to pursue personal and legacy-driven goals. His preference for outright ownership over lease agreements, as expressed in an interview with the New York Times, highlights a mindset focused on psychological validation and control.
Erosion of Accountability and Ethical Safeguards
Since returning to office, Trump has systematically dismantled mechanisms of accountability within the US government. This includes firing inspectors general, appointing loyalists to key positions, and issuing executive orders to expand presidential power. The lack of resistance from Congress and the political establishment has emboldened these actions.
A pivotal moment came with a US Supreme Court ruling in July 2024, which granted Trump "absolute immunity" from prosecution for official acts. This decision, criticized by Justice Sonia Sotomayor as creating a "king above the law," has removed critical checks on presidential authority.
Monetisation of the Presidency
Trump's second term has seen unprecedented levels of self-enrichment, with estimates suggesting he has generated at least $1.4 billion for himself and his family through the presidency. This includes lucrative foreign real estate projects and a major cryptocurrency venture with the United Arab Emirates, announced just before granting the UAE access to advanced AI technology.
The White House has defended these activities, with Press Secretary Karoline Leavitt stating that neither the president nor his family engage in conflicts of interest. However, critics argue that this represents a significant departure from post-Watergate ethical norms.
Global Implications and Future Risks
Trump's actions have not only reshaped US governance but also posed serious risks to international stability. His willingness to fracture NATO alliances, instigate trade wars, and even consider military force over territorial disputes like Greenland reflects a worldview where might makes right.
As Trump continues to operate with fewer constraints, the potential for further erratic and vindictive behaviour remains a concern for global security. This transformation of the US into what some describe as a "protection racket" ruled by whims highlights the profound impact of his second term on both domestic and international affairs.
