Trump swings hard at Oman and South Korea, but his foreign policy misses are piling up

Donald Trump's foreign policy is drawing sharp criticism, with opponents contending that his recent actions demonstrate a pattern of significant missteps. The expiration of the 60-day memorandum of understanding with Iran on Monday coincided with Trump expressing frustration by targeting allies and seemingly rekindling ties with North Korea's Kim Jong Un.

On Sunday, Trump announced a reduction in military drills with South Korea, a long-standing ally. He cited the cost, Seoul's refusal to join the action against Iran, and a desire not to antagonize Kim Jong Un as reasons. The following day, Trump issued a threat to bomb Oman, reportedly for its role in negotiating with Iran to facilitate shipping through the Strait of Hormuz, a move that was part of the very MOU Trump had previously lauded.

These actions have led to bewilderment among foreign policy experts. Retired US Navy Admiral James Stavridis expressed his confusion to CNN, stating, "I don’t get it on cozying up to Kim Jong Un. I don’t get it, on threatening to bomb Oman. Those are actions exactly the opposite of what we should be doing right now." Critics view Trump's approach as lacking conventional strategy, sidelining diplomats, and relying heavily on instinct, leading to accelerating chaos on the international stage.

“

I don’t get it on cozying up to Kim Jong Un. I don’t get it, on threatening to bomb Oman. Those are actions exactly the opposite of what we should be doing right now.