Where in the world is Trump taking us? | Ian Bremmer
In the first 100 days of the second Trump administration, the political landscape has been marked by significant shifts and challenges, as outlined in a recent interview with political scientist Ian Bremmer, hosted by TED’s Helen Walters. Bremmer highlights the administration’s approach to tariffs, which has seen a reconfiguration of trade relationships, particularly with China. The Trump administration has reinstated and even escalated tariffs on various imports, aiming to protect American industries but also stirring concerns about potential retaliatory measures from trading partners. This has led to increased tensions in US-China relations, with both nations grappling with the implications of a more protectionist stance on their economies.
Beyond trade, Bremmer discusses the administration’s evolving foreign policy, particularly regarding Ukraine and Europe. The ongoing conflict in Ukraine remains a focal point, with the US’s commitment to supporting Ukraine against Russian aggression being tested. The Trump administration’s stance has shifted from a more traditional alliance-building approach to a more transactional one, which raises questions about the long-term implications for NATO and European security. Furthermore, immigration policy continues to be a contentious issue, with the administration facing pressure to address border security while also navigating the complexities of humanitarian concerns. Bremmer emphasizes that these developments are not just isolated incidents; they reflect a broader trend of upheaval in global geopolitical relationships, which could have lasting impacts on international stability and cooperation.
In summary, the first 100 days of the second Trump administration have been characterized by a whirlwind of activity and policy shifts that have significant implications for the global stage. As Bremmer articulates, understanding these changes requires discerning the underlying signals from the noise, especially as they relate to the interconnected issues of trade, foreign policy, and immigration. The administration’s approach could redefine America’s role in the world, and as events continue to unfold, the international community watches closely to see how these dynamics will evolve.
It’s been an eventful first 100 days for the second Trump administration, which has featured tariff turmoil, shifting foreign policy and the upheaval of prior geopolitical relationships. In this discussion, political scientist Ian Bremmer separates signal from noise in the biggest stories of the day, evaluating the global economy, US-China relations, the future of Ukraine and Europe, immigration and more. (This interview, hosted by TED’s Helen Walters, was recorded on April 29, 2025.)
