Trump's territorial ambitions spark global tensions
Although Donald Trump has not yet become the host at the White House, his declarations are already stirring significant emotions. This time, the President-elect suggested that the Gulf of Mexico be renamed the American Gulf. "What a beautiful name," Trump remarked.
Writing about Donald Trump being an unpredictable character is an "obvious obviousness". Recently, the President-elect of the USA has brought several subjects into the public discourse that showcase his worldview. These may suggest Trump's decisions following his inauguration, scheduled for 20 January.
The victor of the November elections called for the return of the Panama Canal to the United States. Donald Trump also emphasized that, for the sake of national security and global freedom, controlling Greenland is essential. He declared that the island should be brought under American authority.
Donald Trump not only wants to acquire new territories for the United States but also to influence the naming of certain areas. A recording is circulating online where the President-elect expresses his desire to change the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the American Gulf.
"We’re going to be changing the name of the Gulf of Mexico to the Gulf of America. What a beautiful name. And it’s appropriate. It’s appropriate. And Mexico has to stop allowing millions of people to pour into our country," Donald Trump said.
Donald Trump is making it clear to his neighbours that the USA plays a key role on the international stage. The future president is also demanding that Mexico stop migration across the southern US border. He has also threatened the southern neighbour and Canada with high tariffs. He supposedly wants to use this 'weapon' against European Union countries as well.
Leaders react to Trump's declarations
Let us recall that the leaders of Panama and Denmark absolutely disagree with Trump's demands. Panama does not want to give up its canal, and Copenhagen will not trade Greenland.
The reasons why Trump is interested in both areas are very significant. The Panama Canal is a key strategic point for navigation between the Pacific and Atlantic Oceans. Meanwhile, Greenland has a strategic location - due to the melting glaciers, new trade routes are opening there. Exploration for natural resources is also possible.
The idea of renaming the Gulf of Mexico perfectly showcases Trump's overblown ego, wanting to present the image of a strong leader. It should also be remembered that the Monroe Doctrine remains in American tradition, according to which the USA claimed the right to precedence in stabilising situations on the American continent. According to this doctrine, other powers were not allowed to expand in the Western Hemisphere. Meanwhile, the States were not to interfere in conflicts in Europe.
