International Influencers

When it comes to trade and international influence, there are basically two approaches: the carrot or the stick. Donald Trump, always fond of big sticks (and even bigger threats), has bet everything on tariffs and bullying. China, meanwhile, offers the carrot—investments in infrastructure, loans, roads, bridges, and schools. Spoiler alert: carrots are winning big-time.

Trump

Trump’s tough-guy tactics might play well to a domestic audience that loves tough talk and flag-waving bravado, but internationally, all he’s managed to achieve are superficial concessions and a growing list of frustrated trade partners. His “stick” approach—tariffs, threats, and Twitter tantrums—hasn’t just irritated traditional allies like Canada and Mexico; it’s actively driving them to look for new partners. Canada and Mexico have started eyeing Europe, China, and even other Pacific countries, essentially asking, “Who needs the U.S.?”

No Longer the Big Kahuna

The United States used to dominate global trade so completely that it could push its weight around and everyone else had little choice but to follow. After World War II, America was the undisputed economic powerhouse, dictating terms and making the rules of international commerce. But those days are over. Countries across Asia, Europe, and Latin America have grown stronger economically and politically. With viable alternatives now available, America can no longer act like the global bully. If the U.S. continues to ignore this reality, it won’t just lose influence—it’ll become irrelevant.

China

In contrast, China is quietly winning friends and influencing entire continents through its Belt and Road Initiative. While Trump barks orders and imposes punitive tariffs, China shows up offering billions in soft loans, shiny new infrastructure, and diplomatic respect. Want proof? Just look at Africa and Central Asia. China’s generosity might come with strings attached—like long-term access to rare earth minerals and strategic ports—but most countries are happily signing on the dotted line because, frankly, they get something tangible out of the deal. Nobody’s lining up to turn down China’s “generous” offers.

“Soft Power”

And let’s talk about soft power. While China has been strategically expanding its influence, Trump (and his buddy Elon Musk, through their reckless dismantling of critical agencies) have gutted the U.S. Agency for International Development (USAID). This relatively small but highly effective agency earned America decades of goodwill around the globe by investing in health, education, and basic infrastructure. For a fraction of what the Pentagon blows in a month, USAID projects generated respect, friendship, and valuable diplomatic leverage worldwide. That’s called smart investing in your reputation. Trump decided he’d rather use threats. How’s that working out?

Here’s the bottom line:

Trump’s aggressive, shortsighted tactics might satisfy his ego, but they’re wrecking America’s global influence. Meanwhile, China’s carrot-driven approach is building alliances and influence across continents. The scoreboard doesn’t lie. Carrots beat sticks every time. America might want to rethink its strategy—unless we’re cool becoming an international bully with fewer and fewer friends to back us up.