How Trump supercharged distrust, driving US allies away
F-35, a fifth-generation fighter, was developed in partnership with eight countries, making it a model of international cooperation. When President Donald Trump introduced its successor, the F-47, he praised its strengths — and said the version sold to allies would be deliberately downgraded.
That made sense, Trump said last week, «because someday, maybe they're not our allies.»
For many countries wedded to the United States, his remark confirmed a related conclusion: that America can no longer be trusted. Even nations not yet directly affected can see where things are heading, as Trump threatens allies' economies, their defense partnerships and even their sovereignty.
For now, they are negotiating to minimize the pain from blow after blow, including a broad round of tariffs expected in April. But at the same time, they are pulling back. Preparing for intimidation to be a lasting feature of U.S. relations, they are trying to go their own way.
A few examples:
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— Canada made a $4.2 billion deal with Australia in March to develop cutting-edge radar and announced that it was in talks to take part in the European Union's military buildup.
— Portugal and other NATO nations are reconsidering plans to buy F-35s, fearing U.S. control over parts and software.
— Negotiations over a free trade and technology deal between the EU and India have suddenly accelerated after years of delays.
— Brazil is not only increasing trade with China, it's doing it in China's currency, sidelining the dollar.
— Several allies, including Poland, South Korea and Australia, are even discussing whether to build or secure access to nuclear weapons for their own protection.
Some degree of distancing from the United States had already
