Influences of the USA Flashcards
How does the US influence the UN Security Council?
The US has a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, which allows it to propose and veto resolutions related to international peace and security.
The US can use its veto power to block resolutions that do not align with its interests.
Example: In 2017, the US vetoed a resolution calling for the withdrawal of Trump’s recognition of Jerusalem as Israel’s capital. In the same year, it proposed sanctions on North Korea, which were unanimously accepted.
How has Donald Trump influenced US relations worldwide?
Donald Trump’s leadership has sparked both domestic and international controversy, affecting the US’s global standing.
His policies, tweets, and decisions have been heavily criticized, and some countries sought to distance themselves from the US.
Example: In the UK, a petition with over 500,000 signatures called for Trump to be banned from visiting, and his handling of the COVID-19 crisis was widely criticized, especially his suggestion to inject disinfectant.
How is the US a dominant military power?
The US spends more on its military than any other nation, accounting for 37% of global military spending.
The US military is highly skilled and equipped, with advanced technology, including nuclear missiles.
Example: In 2020, President Trump approved a $738 billion defense bill, including $11.2 billion to purchase 78 F-35 stealth jets.
What role does the US play in the global economy?
The US has the highest GDP in the world, making up around 24% of the global total. The US dollar is a dominant global currency.
The 2008 recession, which began in the US, had global economic consequences.
Example: The US-China trade relationship is worth around $636 billion annually, and the 2008 recession led to widespread job losses and a collapse in the housing market.
How does the US influence NATO?
The US is a key member of NATO, contributing significantly to defense spending and military support for other member nations.
NATO members agree to mutual defense in case of armed attack, with the US playing a crucial role in military operations.
Example: Nearly 70% of NATO’s defense spending comes from the US, and it maintains a strong military presence in Europe, including Turkey.
How does the US influence global issues through the G7?
The US is part of the G7, a group of the world’s seven largest advanced economies, which allows it to influence global policies.
The G7 tackles issues such as climate change, counterterrorism, and global economic stability.
Example: In 2019, the G7 agreed to provide $20 million in emergency funding to combat the Amazon fires.
What is the nature of US-China relations?
The US and China share a strong economic relationship, with significant trade between the two, but there is tension over Taiwan and human rights issues.
The US often criticizes China’s human rights record, while both countries depend on each other for trade.
Example: The US protects Taiwan from Chinese aggression, and trade between the two countries is worth around $636 billion annually.
How is the US’s global military influence challenged by other countries?
Despite its military dominance, countries like China and Russia are challenging the US’s global position.
China is expanding its military, while Russia now has more nuclear weapons than the US.
Example: Russia supported the Assad regime in Syria, directly opposing US-backed forces, and annexed Crimea despite US objections.
What is the “special relationship” between the US and the UK?
The US and the UK share a close military and political relationship, with the US influencing the UK in foreign policy matters.
The UK views the US as its most important bilateral relationship.
Example: Donald Trump supported UK Prime Minister Theresa May in condemning Russia for the poisoning of a former spy, but there are signs that the relationship may be cooling.
What is the US-Scotland economic relationship?
The US is Scotland’s largest export market for whisky, and many Americans claim Scottish heritage.
Americans of Scottish descent have influenced US development, and whisky trade is significant.
Example: In 2022, whisky exports from Scotland to the US totaled £112 million.
. How did the US respond to the 9/11 attacks?
In response to 9/11, the US launched a “war on terrorism,” invading Iraq and Afghanistan in an effort to install democratic governments.
The invasions led to prolonged conflicts, with the US ultimately withdrawing troops from Iraq and reducing its presence in Afghanistan.
Example: President Obama oversaw the killing of Osama bin Laden and the withdrawal of US troops from Iraq.
How did the US handle the rise of ISIS?
The US coordinated airstrikes against ISIS, but efforts to push back the group have been largely unsuccessful.
ISIS used the instability in Libya and Syria to seize weapons and gain power.
Example: In 2011, the US failed to act in Libya to help rebels against Gaddafi, contributing to the rise of ISIS.
