The concept of ‘peace through strength’ has historical roots, dating back to Roman military strategy, emphasizing the importance of military readiness for achieving peace.
Trump's approach may face challenges in balancing military strength with diplomatic efforts, as seen in past administrations.
The implications of Trump's strategy on international relations, particularly concerning Ukraine and China, remain to be seen.
Trump's administration may prioritize military spending and readiness, potentially leading to increased tensions with adversaries like China and Russia.
The effectiveness of the ‘peace through strength’ strategy will depend on the administration's ability to navigate complex international dynamics and maintain diplomatic relations.
Trump’s ‘Peace Through Strength’ Strategy: A Historical Perspective
Donald Trump has adopted the slogan ‘peace through strength’ during his recent election campaign and following his victory on November 5. This concept, historically linked to former President Ronald Reagan, emphasizes a robust military as a means to secure peace. Reagan significantly increased the defense budget during his presidency and later negotiated with the Soviet Union, showcasing a dual approach of military strength coupled with diplomacy. The roots of this ideology trace back to ancient Rome, where military strategist Vegetius stated, ‘he who desires peace must prepare for war,’ and Emperor Hadrian built fortifications to maintain stability.
As Trump prepares to take office, he has pledged to build a strong military and end ongoing wars. His Secretary of State candidate, Marco Rubio, has echoed this sentiment. Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky has praised Trump’s approach but expressed concern over potential pressure on Ukraine to concede to Russia in the ongoing conflict. Trump’s national security adviser during his first term, Robert O’Brien, has indicated that confronting China will be a priority under this strategy.
The Challenges of Implementing ‘Peace Through Strength’
Experts are divided on the effectiveness of Trump’s ‘peace through strength’ strategy. George Pape, a former US intelligence analyst, believes that this concept may be more than just a slogan for the upcoming administration, suggesting a serious commitment to this principle. However, he warns of the need for balance, noting that Reagan successfully combined military strength with ‘smart diplomacy’ to foster peace with the Soviet Union. Jacob Stokes from the Center for a New American Security cautions that the application of this strategy could yield different outcomes than intended. He highlights that while cutting military aid to Ukraine might achieve peace, it could undermine the power aspect of the strategy. The challenge for Trump will be to translate this political slogan into effective foreign policy.
