President Donald Trump shakes hands with China’s President Xi Jinping during their meeting at the G-20 summit in Osaka, Japan, on June 29, 2019.

Susan Walsh/AP

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Susan Walsh/AP

China, often criticized by President Trump throughout his political tenure, might emerge as a significant beneficiary following the erosion of longstanding alliances in Europe and beyond during his administration.

Since assuming office, Trump has fostered relations with Russia and its president, Vladimir Putin, often appearing to side against Ukraine, while expressing discontent towards Western European nations. Recently, he has threatened to impose a 25% tariff on goods imported from Europe.

Morning Edition is examining the consequences of the shifts in U.S. foreign policy under President Trump through discussions with various writers, analysts, and leaders.

While it may be premature to draw firm conclusions, former U.S. ambassador Winston Lord firmly believes that significant dynamics are at play that could usher in a new global landscape.

Lord, who worked closely with Henry Kissinger, remains the only surviving American witness to the historic 1972 summit between President Richard Nixon and Mao Zedong of China.

According to Lord, this potential shift towards a new world order could be characterized by diminished U.S. influence globally, where major powers dominate, traditional norms and institutions are weakened, autocrats are supported, and democratic values are undermined.

Lord discussed with NPR’s Leila Fadel the potential advantages China could gain from Trump’s foreign policy choices and how these decisions might impact the U.S.’s global standing.

This interview has been edited for brevity and clarity.

Leila Fadel: Can you elaborate on how you believe Trump’s strategies will undermine U.S. influence globally? What does that entail?

Winston Lord: We are reducing aid initiatives that are vital for both our national interests and foreign relations. Our withdrawal from various international agreements, including the climate pact, is concerning. We’re fostering an environment where nuclear proliferation is more likely. Our allies may find they can no longer rely on us. The negative consequences are numerous, and the impact on America’s international reputation is substantial.

Editor’s note: The U.S. has resumed $870 million in spending on defense aid for Taiwan, a self-governing democratic island claimed by China.

Fadel: As you noted, significant changes have occurred in just over a month. Recently, the U.S. aligned with Russia and North Korea in opposing a resolution condemning Russian actions in Ukraine, while Trump threatened new tariffs on the European Union. How do you perceive this development?

Lord: I believe Trump has caused more damage to U.S. global standing in just one month than the cumulative fallout from the Vietnam, Iraq, and Afghanistan conflicts. This shift is undermining decades of bipartisan foreign policy and could result in a drastically reduced American role worldwide.

Consider the anticipated outcomes in Asia if this trajectory persists. China and North Korea are likely pleased with the current state of affairs. If Trump’s administration can turn its back on Ukraine, Taiwan may also be at risk.

Fadel: Your historic journey with Nixon to Beijing altered the dynamics surrounding Taiwan. Will the events unfolding today redefine U.S. relations in this context?

Lord: While it is too early to draw definitive conclusions about Trump’s approach to China and Taiwan, there are key figures in his administration, such as Marco Rubio and Michael Waltz, who advocate for a protective stance on Taiwan and maintain skepticism towards China. It will be intriguing to see how Trump’s tendency to engage with dictators like Xi Jinping confronts the hawkish sentiments within his team.

That said, given Trump’s previous comments suggesting that Taiwan should assume more of its own defensive responsibilities, I would be wary if I were in Taiwan.

Fadel: What aspects of the U.S.’s renewed relationship with Russia might China find advantageous?

Lord: Some argue that Trump’s strategy might be a reverse version of Nixon’s and Kissinger’s efforts to separate Moscow from Beijing, though their ties seem to be strengthening.

Fadel: Trump recently signaled his intention to implement an additional 10% tariff on top of an existing 10% tariff on imports from China. What are the potential implications for both the Chinese economy and the U.S. economy?

Lord: This action will have detrimental effects on both economies and is likely to hinder global economic stability. While it will impact China, the country has been proactively preparing for a reduced reliance on American economic influences, making it more resilient to such retaliatory measures.

Fadel: How are other U.S. allies in Asia reacting to these developments in longstanding American foreign policy?

Lord: They are expressing shock and dismay. If this pattern continues, U.S. allies could begin to accommodate China, lacking trust in America’s commitment to their defense. This could lead to a concerning trend of countries pursuing their own nuclear capabilities, posing a threat not just to Asia but to Europe as well.

The radio version of this story was edited by Olivia Hampton and produced by Ana Perez.