Where in the world is Trump taking us? | Ian Bremmer
In the first 100 days of Donald Trump’s second administration, the political landscape has undergone significant transformations, marked by tariff disputes, evolving foreign policy strategies, and a reevaluation of longstanding geopolitical alliances. Political scientist Ian Bremmer, in a recent interview hosted by TED’s Helen Walters, delves into these pressing issues, offering insights into how they shape the global economy and international relations. Bremmer emphasizes the importance of distinguishing between the critical developments (“signals”) and the distractions that often dominate media narratives (“noise”).
One of the most notable aspects of Trump’s early presidency has been the resurgence of tariff turmoil, particularly in the context of US-China relations. Bremmer points out that the administration has implemented new tariffs aimed at countering China’s trade practices, which has sparked concerns about a potential trade war. This aggressive stance comes at a time when the global economy is still recovering from the impacts of the COVID-19 pandemic, raising questions about the sustainability of such policies. Additionally, Bremmer discusses the future of Ukraine amidst ongoing conflict and the implications for European stability, highlighting the need for a united response from Western nations to support Ukraine against external aggression while also addressing the broader security concerns in Europe.
The interview also touches upon immigration policies, which have been a cornerstone of Trump’s political agenda. Bremmer argues that the administration’s approach to immigration will likely face challenges, especially given the changing demographics and public sentiment in the United States. As the country grapples with these complex issues, the interplay between domestic policies and international relations will be pivotal in shaping the future trajectory of the Trump administration. Overall, Bremmer’s analysis provides a comprehensive overview of the current geopolitical climate, underscoring the intricate balance of power and the potential consequences of the administration’s decisions on both a national and global scale.
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.)
