Since taking office, President Donald Trump has focused on expanding U.S. influence through aggressive foreign policy moves. His administration has signed numerous executive orders, many facing legal challenges and opposition from Democrats. With a renewed commitment to global leadership, Trump has shifted his attention from domestic issues to foreign conflicts, including controversial actions against traditional allies and bold proposals for territorial expansion. These moves appear to prioritize Trump’s personal legacy rather than genuine diplomatic progress, aiming for a place in history through provocative policies and rhetoric.
Trump’s Space Ambitions and Legacy Building
In his second term, Trump has revived the concept of “Manifest Destiny” — a 19th-century doctrine that justified the U.S. expansion westward. During his inaugural address, Trump pledged to extend American influence into space, specifically targeting Mars. Although he downplays the immediate importance of space exploration, Trump has invested heavily in SpaceX, Elon Musk’s private space company, signaling his commitment to expanding American presence beyond Earth.
Trump’s space ambitions echo imperialist rhetoric, invoking a sense of American exceptionalism that positions the U.S. as a dominant force both on Earth and in space. While the concept of Manifest Destiny once justified the violent displacement of indigenous people, Trump’s modern interpretation uses space exploration as a metaphor for territorial expansion — now aiming for Mars. This rhetoric aligns with his broader nationalist agenda, though the feasibility of sending humans to Mars remains highly uncertain. Experts, including The Planetary Society, have voiced concerns over funding cuts to NASA, which undermine Trump’s ambitious vision for interplanetary conquest.
The Greenland Controversy
Trump’s aggressive foreign policy also includes territorial ambitions closer to home. In March 2025, Vice President JD Vance visited Greenland, a move linked to Trump’s desire to incorporate the island into the U.S. He has referred to Greenland as a “large real estate deal,” suggesting that its strategic location would benefit the U.S. economically and politically.
However, Greenland’s population, which is predominantly Inuit, has strongly opposed this idea. Over 85% of Greenlanders are against joining the United States, with many fearing the cultural erasure seen in previous U.S. territorial acquisitions, such as Hawaii. Despite local protests, Trump continues to push for a U.S. takeover, viewing it as another step in his quest for imperial dominance.
Tensions with Allies and Global Economic Impact
Trump’s foreign policy is not limited to territorial expansion. His relationship with key allies, including Canada and Ukraine, has become increasingly strained. In February 2025, Trump publicly clashed with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, undermining Ukraine’s standing on the world stage and weakening Western unity. Similarly, Trump’s tariffs on Canada have harmed small businesses and shifted political support within Canada, strengthening opposition to his policies.
According to Daljoog News, Trump’s latest round of tariffs against U.S. trade partners has led to economic instability. Counter-tariffs imposed by other countries have triggered a downturn in the U.S. economy, reminiscent of the financial disruptions seen during the COVID-19 pandemic. Despite the economic fallout, Trump’s rhetoric remains focused on securing his legacy, with claims that the tariffs will eventually be reversed as negotiations continue.
Trump’s Vision: Political Immortality Through Global Conflict
Trump’s foreign policy often appears to be more about personal legacy building than addressing real national interests. By positioning himself as a bold, fearless leader in international disputes, Trump seeks to carve his image into history, much like proposals to place his likeness on the $100 bill or carve his face into Mount Rushmore.
This focus on self-promotion detracts from pressing domestic issues, such as social welfare, and redirects attention toward unnecessary foreign conflicts. As a result, Trump’s approach risks damaging U.S. relations with traditional allies, while pursuing personal glory at the expense of global stability.
While Trump’s foreign policy may bolster his image among certain supporters, it carries significant risks. His focus on territorial expansion, trade wars, and grandiose space missions seems to prioritize personal legacy over long-term national interests. As the global stage grows increasingly tense, Trump’s pursuit of political immortality threatens the sovereignty of other nations and undermines the U.S.’s reputation as a reliable partner.
As global leaders and allies respond to his policies, it is clear that Trump’s actions will have lasting consequences, both for the United States and for the world. With a focus on his own political future, Trump’s legacy will likely be shaped by these foreign policy decisions for years to come.
