Cormac Smith: Trump's Threat to the International Rules-Based Order and Ukraine

Trump's Ambition and the Rules-Based Order

• 🎯 Donald Trump is described as willing to "smash the rules-based order" to achieve his historical ambition of increasing the size of the United States.
• ⚠️ This "rules-based order," which has provided peace and prosperity since WWII, is now "on life support" primarily due to Trump's actions.
• 🧠 Trump is characterized as a narcissist and sociopath, devoid of empathy, controlling a powerful military force.

Impact on Ukraine

• 💔 Ukrainian friends of the speaker find Donald Trump appalling, recalling the public humiliation of their president.
• 🚫 Despite sometimes suggesting Ukraine could win, Trump has put no pressure on Russia and instead pressures Ukraine to concede territory.
• 🔑 Ukraine has made concessions but will not give up the Donbas, particularly the heavily fortified "fortress belt," which is vital for their security and the gateway to Kyiv.

Greenland and International Relations

• 🧐 The speaker addresses Sergey Lavrov's specious comparison of Crimea to Greenland, stating "two wrongs don't make a right."
• 🤝 Regarding Greenland, the US could have unfettered military access and reoccupy existing bases under the 1951 agreement with Denmark, a NATO ally.
• 💰 Investment in drilling for rare earth metals in Greenland is also a possibility with Danish cooperation.

Responding to Trump's Actions

• ⚖️ A former NATO commander stated that an order from Trump to militarily take Greenland would be illegal and could be refused by US officers.
• 🗣️ Trump is seen as a bully, and leaders must stand strong and united against him.
• 🇺🇸 The ultimate check on Trump is the American people, along with generals and military members who have pledged allegiance to the Constitution, not to Trump.
• 🤝 Western leaders need unity of purpose and voice to show resolve and strength, as both Russians and Trump understand only strength.
• 🇪🇺 Trump's US national security strategy openly states he is no friend of Europe and aims to work with far-right "patriotic parties."