Trump Will Make South Korea Pay For His Iran Humiliation
His rage is driving him to make irrational policy choices.
Last winter, Donald Trump launched an aggressive conflict with Iran. The U.S. is now experiencing setbacks, with Iran remaining resolute, global economies threatened, U.S. military resources strained, and ammunition supplies low. Recent setbacks have included a failed attempt to sneak away from the region due to a potential assassination threat.
In response, Trump has decided to penalize South Korea, a steadfast ally, and provoke doubts about America's resolve to protect its allies. He has ordered a significant reduction in participation in a joint military exercise with South Korea, citing cost as a factor, but also expressing frustration that the South Koreans have not assisted in Iran's denuclearization.
Trump seems to view the exercise as a personal insult, as the South Koreans have declined his request to join the effort. Scaling back the exercise is an irrational move that only endangers an ally and emboldens adversaries to perceive America as weak. Trump's actions are driven by a narcissistic rage, as he blames others for his failures and seeks to punish those he deems disloyal.
The U.S. is witnessing a public demonstration of the president's insecurity and inability to lead effectively. While allies may temporarily overlook Trump's antics, they possess autonomy and likely plan for a future where the U.S. no longer adheres to its principles and commitments. If a crisis arises in the Pacific, Korean peninsula, or Europe, dictators may leverage Trump's failures to target the nations that have pledged to defend democracy.
Written by urgent.news from The Atlantic's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
