The Political Scene | The New Yorker

Is Donald Trump Creating the Conditions for Another World War?

26 snips
Jan 9, 2026
The discussion delves into Trump's controversial use of force, particularly in Venezuela and his ambitions for Greenland. The panel explores his 'narcissistic unilateralism' and how it threatens international alliances. Trump's desire for territorial control is examined, revealing his motivations as a mix of personal ambition and risk-taking, prompting comparisons to historical global tensions. There's a focus on the delicate balance of power as the hosts warn about the increased risks of global conflict under his administration.
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INSIGHT

Power As Personal Morality

  • Donald Trump frames foreign policy as unconstrained personal power rather than law or doctrine.
  • That mindset replaces institutional limits with one man's morality and whims, raising global risk.
INSIGHT

Narcissistic Unilateralism Explained

  • Susan Glasser diagnoses Trump's foreign policy as "narcissistic unilateralism" rather than isolationism.
  • His actions show aggressive interventions, not withdrawal, driven by personal grandiosity.
INSIGHT

NATO Credibility At Risk

  • Threats to NATO credibility arise when the U.S. is seen as a potential aggressor against allies.
  • Undermining treaty commitments erodes the mutual-defense fabric that deters great-power conflict.
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