Great Decisions 2026

by G. John Ikenberry, Foreign Policy Association

America and the Trump 2.0 Foreign Policy
Trump's return has marked a break from 80 years of U.S. foreign policy leadership, embracing an "America First" approach. This chapter explores the risks of isolation and diminished influence in relation to Trump 2.0 foreign policy.
By G. John IkenberryTrump Tariffs and the Future of the World Economy
Trump's aggressive trade and tariff policies have shaken global economic norms. What's the rationale behind this radical shift in economic policy, and what are the implications for multilateral trade and geopolitics?
By Michael MastandunoU.S.-China Relations
Relations with China remain tense, with tariffs, military modernization, and pressure on Taiwan. Does Trump have a coherent China policy, and will his tariffs on Rare Earth minerals be effective? What are America's strategic options?
By Oriana MastroRuptured Alliances and the Risk of Nuclear Proliferation
U.S. alliance skepticism may drive countries like Japan and South Korea to reconsider nuclear options. What are the implications of the Trump administration's rethinking of the U.S. alliance system for regional and global security? Will this new uncertainty alter the way allies and rivals in various regions make decisions about security and nuclear weapons?
By Gideon RoseUkraine and the Future of European Security
With reduced U.S. support for NATO and Ukraine, Europe faces strategic uncertainty. The Trump administration has signaled an intention to reduce its security role in Europe. What are America's stakes in NATO and Europe's strategic dilemmas, and how might Europe respond?
By Thomas WrightMultilateral Institutions in a Changing World Order
Can multilateralism survive amid shifting global power and rising nationalism? This chapter examines the future of global cooperation across trade, health, and finance.
By Scott Bessent (SUBJECT TO CHANGE)U.S. Engagement of Africa
Africa's geopolitical role is growing. What lessons can the U.S. learn from China's presence there, and how might it strengthen ties, especially with leading nations like Nigeria? What tools of statecraft might the U.S. bring to its engagement with Africa?
By Jendayi E. FrazerThe Future of Human Rights and International Law
As democracy and human rights retreat globally—and the U.S. pulls back—how can civil society and legal norms remain effective in a divided world? What is the role and force of international law in this era of impunity? 

278 pages, Kindle Edition

Published December 9, 2025

About the author

Gilford John Ikenberry (October 5, 1954) is a theorist of international relations and United States foreign policy, and a professor of Politics and International Affairs in the Woodrow Wilson School of Public and International Affairs at Princeton University.

Reviews

[Terry · Rating 4 out of 5]

This book is composed of articles written by knowledgeable professionals, most associated with a political administration or college. Many of the authors do not list a political affiliation, which I find interesting. The articles are for the most part, easy to follow and very informative which facilitated some great discussions. As with most articles, bias is present. The last section on human rights is a little hard to follow as it is loaded with acronyms. Even though the topics were all recently written, things quickly shift in the current Trump administration making some topics seem out of date. Even so, their insight is enlightening.

[Linda Malcor · Rating 5 out of 5]

This book had the unfortunate problem that the articles were written last August and Trump started a war with Iran three weeks ago, so much of the information is suddenly out of date.

[Dan · Rating 4 out of 5]

The basis of an eight-week set of discussions with a group from the World Affairs Council of Hilton Head. The chapters varied from being very good to politically-motivated half-truths. Discussions with the group were excellent.