In our most recent livestream episode, hosted as ever by Mehran Khalili, we delved into the multifaceted geopolitical landscape under the second-term of Donald Trump.

In the episode titled ‘Trump 2.0: Yanis Varoufakis and Katie Halper on Gaza, Europe, and What’s Next’, our co-founder Yanis Varoufakis, together with American journalist and political commentator Katie Halper, explored the implications of Trump’s return to power, with a particular focus on Gaza, Europe, and the future trajectory of global politics.

Revisiting Trump’s legacy

Khalili highlighted the stark reality following Trump’s inauguration, touching on themes of American expansionism and dominance. Trump has already withdrawn the US from the World Health Organization and the Paris Climate Agreement, casting a shadow over global relations.

Reflecting on Trump’s legacy, Varoufakis pointed out, “Trump gave Netanyahu everything. He engineered the Abraham Accords between Arab countries and Israel without any mention of the Palestinians. It’s hard to be sad that Biden is out from the Palestinian perspective because Trump couldn’t have done worse than Biden did.”

A historical contextualization

Varoufakis offered a historical parallel, likening recent global events to the 1929 financial collapse, which precipitated the rise of fascism due to liberalism’s failure. “The left was not ready in 1929, and it wasn’t ready in 2008.” He warned of the potential resurgence of authoritarian regimes unless a rational and just alternative becomes available.

The role of Trump and the global order

Halper added nuance to the conversation by highlighting Trump’s unpredictable nature, “He is a radical truth-teller and liar simultaneously because he claims to drain the swamp. Occasionally, he states truths that politicians like Bernie Sanders might acknowledge, but his deeds never align with moral standards.”

Halper critically assessed Biden’s policies, emphasising his commitment to Zionism despite the narrative of maintaining peace. She stated, “Trump is not an ideologue; his greatest political gift is his lack of principle. When he is hypocritical, it doesn’t come off as that due to zero expectations of consistency.”

The challenges of resistance

The discussion inevitably turned to the issue of resistance. Both speakers recognised the need for strategic change. Varoufakis noted the critical contradictions in Trump’s policies, stating, “The left must position itself to exploit these contradictions, whether in America’s financial dealings or Trump’s promises to his working-class base, which are at odds with his own tribe of financiers and realtors.”

Meanwhile, Halper addressed the challenge of effective opposition, stressing the necessity for activism that focuses on policy rather than sensationalist narratives. “We must ensure the opposition to Trump revolves around policy, not hyperbolic accusations or trivial controversies.”

Gaza’s plight under renewed American influence

Both speakers expressed grave concerns over the situation in Gaza.

Halper, reflecting on the ongoing ceasefire and its fragility, stated, “It remains crucial to stay vigilant about Gaza and the West Bank amid political shifts. We’ve seen Israel exploit ceasefires to continue oppressive actions in the West Bank, and the US political support hasn’t shifted significantly despite changes in leadership.”

Closing points

In the face of monumental political shifts, we as DiEM25, along with our superb contributors and supporters, urge for a re-evaluation of conventional politics. There’s a need to demand justice, sustainability, and transparency, challenging the fascist trends that risk re-establishment under leaders like Trump.

As citizens and activists, embracing knowledge and fostering a community-driven, inclusive, and progressive agenda, we can navigate these turbulent times with resilience and hope.

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