Donald Trump's return to the presidency is seen as a historic and decisive moment not only for the U.S. but for global politics as well. With his reentry into power, his policies and agenda have once again become the focal point of discussion on the world stage, with the issue of deporting illegal immigrants taking center stage. This is the same issue that marked his first term, where he took a hardline stance, and he has already declared it a top priority this time around too.
Even before his inauguration, there was widespread speculation that Trump's return to power would lead to unprecedented changes in America's global policies, posing new challenges for several countries. Europe is anxious about what his next move will be, while Canada and China struggle to decipher Trump's strategy. His previous claim over Greenland had already stirred geopolitical circles, and a sense of unease is visible in many Muslim countries as well.
Apprehension in Europe, Joy in India and Saudi Arabia
According to a survey conducted by the European Council on Foreign Relations (ECFR) and Oxford University, many countries are wary of Trump's policy approach. On the other hand, discussions are ongoing about his friendly ties with adversaries like Russia and China, seeing Trump as someone who views international relations primarily through the lens of trade deals. His behavior toward NATO countries like Canada and Denmark, however, signals something entirely different.
The survey also reveals that non-aligned nations like India and Saudi Arabia are pleased with Trump’s return, believing they can benefit more from trade deals with him, especially as Biden was more Europe-leaning. Discontent in Europe is clear, as the election results are considered most damaging to them. The survey also shows that India is among the leading countries welcoming Trump's return, while Europe tops the "Never Trumpers" list.
In contrast, Trump’s image in India has always been controversial. During his presidency, his focus largely remained on economic and strategic interests, which led to his protectionist policies directly impacting India’s trade interests. However, the rising influence of China has strengthened the strategic partnership between India and the U.S. Trump maintained a positive relationship with Prime Minister Narendra Modi, though some of his decisions, like changes in U.S. visa policies and issues related to H1B visas, had a negative impact on India’s economic and business environment.
A New Threat Looms for Millions of Immigrants
With Donald Trump once again sworn in as the President of the United States, a new wave of fear has swept across millions of undocumented immigrants residing in the country. During his election campaign, Trump had made it clear that he would launch a large-scale deportation campaign to expel illegal immigrants from the U.S. Following his inauguration, the implementation of this policy has already begun, with many predicting that it could become the largest deportation operation in U.S. history. While the focus of this campaign is on undocumented immigrants with criminal backgrounds, there are concerns that it could affect all illegal residents.
The campaign is starting in states like Chicago, where the concentration of illegal immigrants is high. Hundreds of U.S. Immigration and Customs Enforcement (ICE) officers have already been deployed. The deportation efforts are expected to be concentrated in states viewed as safe havens for illegal immigrants.
Signs of Protest and Political Polarization
Trump's hardline approach to illegal immigrants has sparked fierce opposition in Democrat-led states. Leaders like the Mayor of Chicago and the Governor of Illinois have made it clear that they will oppose the Trump administration’s deportation policy and refuse to cooperate with local law enforcement. According to them, illegal immigrants are vital contributors to their state’s economy, and the policy should focus only on criminal elements, not all undocumented immigrants.
This opposition could make the effective implementation of the deportation campaign a significant challenge. A clash between the Trump administration and these opposing states has already begun. The country appears to be clearly divided into two poles. Trump supporters see it as a bold move in America’s interest, while his critics view it as harmful and divisive from a humanitarian perspective.
Lessons from Trump's First Term
In Trump’s first term, attempts were made to enforce strict policies against illegal immigrants, but these faced widespread opposition. Under the slogan “Make America Great Again,” he vowed to prioritize the interests of American citizens. However, his immigration policy drew sharp criticism from human rights organizations and Democratic leaders.
In the first term, Trump’s deportation campaign was accused of targeting all immigrants rather than focusing solely on criminals. These accusations have resurfaced again. The question now is how Trump will respond to these criticisms and how effectively he will implement his policy this time around.
Strategy After Returning to Power
After taking the oath as President, Donald Trump’s biggest challenge will be to effectively implement his deportation policy while ensuring that it does not create political instability within the country. In many American states, there is likely to be strong opposition to this policy, and if it is not handled sensitively, it could become a major headache for his administration.
Trump’s move will not be limited to the internal affairs of the U.S. alone, but it will have a significant impact on the international stage as well. Relations with several countries, especially those from which the largest numbers of illegal immigrants enter the U.S., like Mexico and India, could be affected by this policy. The Trump administration will need to ensure what impact this policy will have on international diplomacy, particularly with those nations that have a high flow of illegal immigrants.
The Challenge of Illegal Immigrants and the Future of America
The issue of illegal immigrants has always been complex and sensitive for the U.S. On one hand, the U.S. needs to secure its borders and curb illegal activities, while on the other, it must also avoid violating human rights. How Trump’s deportation policy strikes this balance will be the biggest test of his second term.
After Trump’s inauguration, an uncertain future has begun for millions of illegal immigrants living in the U.S. With stringent immigration laws and deportation campaigns, not only will they face economic and social insecurity, but their families, especially children, could also be deeply affected.
Trump’s Indo-Pacific Policy and India
Donald Trump’s Indo-Pacific policy has been extremely important from a strategic perspective for India, and it will continue to hold significance during his second term. The Trump administration will accelerate its 'Free and Open Indo-Pacific' strategy to curb China’s growing influence, giving India an opportunity to further strengthen its role in this region.
During Trump’s first term, the U.S. viewed India as a major defense partner, and security cooperation, military exercises, and arms supply between the two countries were boosted. The Trump administration has regarded India as a balancing power against China, and this policy has become even stronger through the Quad group.
Although Trump’s trade policies sometimes created tension in India-U.S. relations, strategically, this policy proved beneficial for India. This strategy is likely to continue in the upcoming term as well.
Trump's Impact on India's Neighboring Countries
Donald Trump's return to power could have significant implications for America's relations with India's neighboring countries, particularly Pakistan and Bangladesh. Trump's stance towards Pakistan has always been tough. In his previous term, he accused Pakistan of supporting terrorism and cut military aid to the country. With Trump’s return, Pakistan may face increased pressure to take stringent measures against terrorism, which could lead to new dynamics in India-Pakistan relations and an escalation of international pressure on terrorism.
Regarding Bangladesh, Trump's approach may be more complex, especially amidst declining relations. China's growing influence in Bangladesh could become a concern for both India and the U.S. under Trump's Indo-Pacific policy. In this context, the Trump administration, in coordination with India, might take strategic steps to improve relations with Bangladesh and maintain regional stability.
Conclusion
Overall, Donald Trump’s return to power could be strategically beneficial for India, particularly in terms of terrorism and regional security. Under his leadership, there could be deepened cooperation in India-U.S. relations, which could also significantly impact India’s ties with its neighboring countries.
As Donald Trump takes the oath, the U.S. once again faces a complex and sensitive issue—illegal immigration, which could deeply affect the country’s social, political, and economic framework. Trump's deportation policy is receiving deeply divided reactions. While his supporters see it as a bold and decisive move necessary for America's security, sovereignty, and economic stability, opponents view it as a cruel policy against human rights and social justice.
Under Trump's leadership, the U.S. is moving towards a new era where immigration and deportation will once again be at the center of political and social discourse. These policies could have long-term effects not only on the internal security and social structure of the U.S. but also on a global scale. Particularly on countries like Mexico, India, and Central American nations, where a large number of illegal immigrants to the U.S. originate.
It will be interesting to see how the Trump administration implements this policy and whether they adopt the same stringent stance as in the previous term or modify the policies considering global and domestic pressures. Equally important will be observing how this policy impacts the political landscape of the U.S. and its international relations.