This story at a glance…

1. The U.S. election may redefine global alliances.

2. Ukraine, Gaza, and climate policy hinge on either candidate’s approach.

3. Harris signals continued global engagement, while Trump leans toward prioritizing U.S. interests.

4. Allies and adversaries await America’s next move on the world stage.

The 2024 US Election and Its Global Implications

The upcoming U.S. presidential election may feel domestic, but for nations worldwide, it’s like watching the captain take the helm before a storm. The stakes stretch far beyond American soil, as the country’s policies have a ripple effect across continents—from Ukraine’s battlegrounds to climate-ravaged regions and tense diplomatic standoffs. As the world holds its breath, the election results will bring starkly contrasting visions for America’s place in the world.

Ukraine and the Balance of Power
America’s support for Ukraine has been unwavering under President Biden. Kamala Harris seems ready to continue that support, keeping American influence strong within NATO. Yet former NATO deputy secretary Rose Gottemoeller warns that a Trump win could bring a storm of doubt to Europe. With Trump’s “Americanism, not globalism” mindset, he could reduce U.S. involvement in NATO. If Trump returns to office, he has pledged to end U.S. financial support for Ukraine, insisting, “We gotta get out.”

Middle East: A Delicate Balancing Act
In the Middle East, both candidates approach the Israel-Palestine conflict like tightrope walkers balancing on opposite ends of the rope. Harris affirms its right to self-defense while emphasizing that “the killing of innocent Palestinians has to stop.” Trump, on the other hand, has promised to build on his peace agreements with Arab nations, the Abraham Accords, which some argue sidelined Palestinians in the pursuit of broader peace. Trump envisions himself as a mediator, saying he’ll “have peace in the Middle East, and soon.” 

China and the Global Economic Landscape
The U.S.-China relationship is fraught with tension over trade, Taiwan, and global influence. Both leading U.S. candidates view China as a rival. If elected, Trump has proposed 60% tariffs on all Chinese imports. And he believes he could negotiate favorable terms with China through his rapport with President Xi Jinping, aiming to steer U.S.-China relations on his terms. On the other hand, Harris would continue current strategies to counter China’s influence without abrupt economic measures.

Addressing the Climate Crisis
Climate change looms like an approaching thunderstorm, and the U.S. is one of the only powers large enough to steer it back. Mary Robinson, former president of Ireland, emphasizes the stakes: “Every fraction of a degree matters” to prevent worsening climate disasters. Under Harris, recent green energy incentives and international climate commitments are likely to continue. Trump has openly criticized climate initiatives as “one of the greatest scams of all time.” While he’s expected to roll back environmental protections, Robinson is cautiously optimistic that grassroots and state-level initiatives could maintain momentum regardless of federal policies.

Humanitarian Aid and Global Stability
As the world’s largest humanitarian donor, the U.S. has significant influence over international aid efforts, with $18.1 billion contributed to UN aid in 2022 alone. Martin Griffiths, former UN Under-Secretary-General for Humanitarian Affairs, stresses the need for America’s leadership, describing it as a “light in times of global conflict” and remarking, “We dare to hope for more” in an era of global uncertainty. Should Harris win, that humanitarian support is expected to continue. But a return to isolationism under Trump could, Griffiths warns, “deepen global instability” at a time when millions rely on U.S. support for survival.

Reflection
Proverbs 21:1 says, “The king’s heart is a stream of water in the hand of the Lord; He turns it wherever He will.” Just as water shapes the land, God guides those in authority for His purposes. May we pray that our leaders seek His wisdom and serve with justice, knowing that the world’s needs are always in His care.