US Foreign Policy: The Internal Contest Between 'America-First' and 'Permanent Washington'
UPSC Relevance
Prelims: International Relations (US foreign policy shifts, key terms); Current events of international importance.
Mains:
General Studies Paper 2: Effect of policies and politics of developed and developing countries on India’s interests; Bilateral, regional and global groupings and agreements involving India and/or affecting India’s interests. Understanding the internal drivers of US policy is crucial for analyzing India-US relations.
Key Highlights from the News
The article argues that the formulation of US foreign policy is not merely shaped by international circumstances, but by a strong domestic power struggle within the United States.
This struggle is primarily between two factions:
America-First / Anti-interventionist camp: Donald Trump is its main proponent. They argue for reducing military interventions worldwide and focusing on domestic affairs.
'Permanent Washington': A powerful group comprising military-industrial establishment, 'neo-con' politicians, and officials who wish to maintain US global hegemony and continue military actions.
The article states that Trump's inability to fully implement his key election promise of immediately ending the Ukraine war is due to strong pressure from 'Permanent Washington'.
The outcome of the recent Alaska summit was a compromise between these two forces. While Trump gained an image as a peacemaker, the continuation of the war protected the interests of 'Permanent Washington'.
This domestic competition will critically influence future global security and the American response to India's growth.
Detailed Explanation: Key Concepts
'America First' / Anti-interventionism:
This is a foreign policy approach that prioritizes America's national interests over those of other countries.
This policy is generally skeptical of international alliances, free trade agreements, and American military interventions in foreign conflicts.
'Permanent Washington' / The Establishment:
This term refers to a network of officials, lobbyists, and diplomats who exert a constant influence on policies over the long term, regardless of who is President in the US, transcending party politics.
The term often carries a negative connotation, as a faction resistant to change.
Neoconservatism ('Neo-con'):
This is a movement in American politics. In foreign policy, they strongly advocate for promoting democracy in other countries, maintaining American dominance, and using military force if necessary.
MAGA (Make America Great Again):
This is a political slogan and movement associated with Donald Trump. The concept of 'America First' is a key part of it.
Implications for India:
This domestic conflict can affect India in several ways:
An America with an Anti-interventionist approach might withdraw from containing China's rise. This could be a security challenge for India. However, at the same time, they would interfere less in India's domestic affairs and issues like its relationship with Russia.
If the influence of 'Permanent Washington' increases, they would see India as a key strategic partner to counter China (e.g., Quad). However, there is also a possibility that India will be pressured more to align with America's foreign policy objectives.
COMMENTS