One benefit of a nightmare is the awakening it brings. In the United States, life seems to have devolved into a perpetual nightmare with no apparent escape.
The upcoming presidential election stands out as a particularly daunting specter. A significant majority of Americans express discontent with the prospect of either Donald Trump or Joe Biden assuming the presidency. The recent events have only added to the sense of dread for both candidates.
During recent appearances at the National Rifle Association meeting in Indiana and a rally in South Carolina, President Trump delivered lengthy speeches filled with inaccuracies and falsehoods. Among his alarming statements, one in particular drew widespread condemnation and shock, both domestically and internationally, especially concerning his stance on NATO.
In a conversation with a world leader, Trump bluntly stated, “You didn’t pay? You’re delinquent? Yes, let’s say that happened. No, I would not protect you. In fact, I would encourage them [Russia] to do whatever the hell they want. You gotta pay.”
The possibility of Trump potentially withdrawing from NATO if re-elected remains a subject of debate. While Congress has passed a resolution to prevent such a move without its consent, the level of compliance exhibited by Republican lawmakers towards Trump’s directives introduces uncertainties. It wouldn’t be entirely surprising if Trump were to reverse his position on this matter.
Trump might exploit this threat as leverage to push for increased defense spending by NATO members. Some of his supporters could view this strategy as astute. This approach may also lead others to overlook his more outlandish statements, such as his promises to swiftly resolve the conflict in Ukraine or take retribution against his adversaries.
In contrast, Biden’s recent challenges have made Trump’s predicament appear comparatively mild. A damning report by special counsel Robert Hur scrutinizing Biden’s handling of classified information concluded that no charges were warranted.
The report attributed Biden’s lapses to his advanced age and memory issues. Descriptions of the 81-year-old Democrat’s memory as “hazy,” “fuzzy,” “faulty,” and “poor,” along with significant limitations, have triggered strong reactions from the White House, the first lady, and the president himself.
Biden’s primary obstacle lies in the visual and emotional aspects of politics, rather than pure rationality. His appearance and demeanor are often perceived as elderly, but memory lapses do not necessarily equate to diminished intellect or judgment. Experience and age can sometimes bring wisdom, as exemplified by figures like Henry Kissinger. While Biden may not match Kissinger’s stature, he certainly differs from Trump. Nevertheless, the report’s damaging revelations could have lasting implications, despite the election being months away.
On the international front, the Israeli military offensive in Gaza, particularly at the Rafah Gate where a significant number of Palestinian refugees have sought shelter, presents a harrowing scenario. Israeli Prime Minister Benjamin Netanyahu’s refusal to consider a cease-fire and his determination to dismantle Hamas further exacerbate the crisis. The provision of safe passage zones for Palestinians raises questions about the availability of essential resources like shelter, food, water, and medical aid, all of which have been severely compromised.
The growing discord between Washington and Jerusalem is apparent. If the Rafah offensive results in substantial civilian casualties and destruction, the United States may face mounting pressure to intervene and push for a truce. Such circumstances could strain the relationship between the two nations significantly.
Similarly, the conflict in Ukraine paints a grim picture for Kyiv. Despite their valiant defense efforts, Ukraine faces significant challenges due to Russia’s overwhelming military superiority in terms of size, population, and resources. The Ukrainian Army grapples with attrition, ammunition shortages, and a lack of essential military equipment. While efforts to ramp up production are underway in Europe and the United States, the process of replenishing supplies will take time.
President Volodymyr Zelensky’s decision to dismiss his commander, Valery Zaluhzny, possibly due to the latter’s proposal for increased troop mobilization and potential changes to the draft age, underscores the gravity of the situation. Currently, Ukraine enlists men aged 26 to 60, resulting in an average soldier age of 40. Zelensky appears hesitant to significantly lower the draft age, indicating the complexities involved in addressing the crisis.
These distressing developments represent only a fraction of the multitude of challenges facing the nation. The pervasive dysfunction in Congress and the ongoing border crisis continue to cast a shadow over the country’s future. As the presidential election looms closer, the prevailing nightmares show no signs of abating or diminishing in intensity.
In such tumultuous times, viable solutions or remedies may not present themselves readily. The nation’s resilience and robust economy offer some solace, suggesting the capacity to endure considerable turmoil. Perhaps, in the future, capable leaders will emerge to steer the nation towards a more coherent path. Until then, the only recourse may be to brace for the storm ahead.
Harlan Ullman, UPI’s Arnaud de Borchgrave Distinguished Columnist and a senior adviser at Washington’s Atlantic Council, is the prominent figure behind the concept of “shock and awe.” He is also the author of “The Fifth Horseman and the New MAD: How Massive Attacks of Disruption Became the Looming Existential Danger to a Divided Nation and the World at Large.” Follow his insights @harlankullman. The opinions expressed in this article belong solely to the author.