US President Donald Trump’s return to the White House in January has unleashed a transformative agenda that is reshaping his country‘s domestic, foreign and economic landscapes. Reflecting on his first 100 days, his actions can be structured into three overarching themes: efficiency-driven domestic policy, results-oriented foreign policy and interest-driven trade policy.
These pillars not only define Mr Trump’s approach but also challenge global partners, particularly the EU, to adapt to a rapidly evolving world order. This analysis examines these pillars, integrating government efficiency, tariffs, the war in Ukraine and EU-US relations, to assess their implications for the evolving global order.
Governments worldwide face ballooning deficits and inefficient spending, with the US and EU as prime examples. In the EU, member states such as France and Italy struggle with deficits exceeding 3 per cent of gross domestic product, breaching EU fiscal rules.
The US national debt stands at about $36 trillion (123 per cent of GDP in 2024), with interest payments projected to reach $1 trillion annually by 2026, according to the Congressional Budget Office. Mr Trump’s creation of the Department of Government Efficiency, led by Elon Musk, signals a bold attempt to streamline US federal spending. Although Doge’s methods are controversial in some areas, the EU would benefit from efforts to enhance government efficiency.
After all, efficient governance is not just a responsibility towards taxpayers; it’s a necessity to address fiscal crises and restore public trust.
Many observers, especially in Europe, have been closely watching Mr Trump’s initial actions regarding Russia’s war in Ukraine. Although high expectations for a swift end to the war have not yet been met, the ongoing negotiations are a crucial first step towards a ceasefire. It is beyond question that Ukraine’s territorial integrity must be guaranteed and protected. Nevertheless, there will be an end to this brutal and cruel war of aggression only if talks are also held with the aggressor, Russia. This approach distinguishes the new US administration from its predecessor and the EU.
Trump's actions can be structured into three themes: efficiency-driven domestic policy, results-oriented foreign policy and interest-driven trade policy
By the end of last year, the war has cost Ukraine $150 billion in infrastructure damage and displaced 6 million people, while Nato allies face economic strain from sanctions and energy costs. The EU is much more affected by that than the US and should, therefore, secure its place at the negotiating table. This means, however, that it must also re-engage in dialogue with Russia.
The Russian invasion of Ukraine and the new US administration have ultimately led to the EU taking greater responsibility for its own defence. This was most clearly expressed by European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen’s announcement to invest €800 billion ($910 billion) in European defence. It is to be hoped that this enormous sum will be put to good use. Looking at Germany, the “Zeitenwende” promised by departing Chancellor Olaf Scholz has so far been nothing more than an announcement that has not been followed by enough deeds. The German defence budget still lacks critical funds and investments in new cutting-edge technologies such as drone technology.
The US is the EU’s largest trading partner, with €900 billion in bilateral trade last year and a €235 billion trade surplus that is now under threat. Germany’s automotive sector, employing 800,000 workers, faces billions in losses from 20 per cent tariffs. Yet, many European leaders, from Mr Scholz to French President Emmanuel Macron, lack rapport with Mr Trump. However, future German chancellor Friedrich Merz, Italian Prime Minister Giorgia Meloni and many others have recognised that a good personal relationship with Mr Trump can be beneficial – a positive development.
Europe could learn from the approach undertaken by the Gulf countries such as the UAE by fostering alliances with the US government and private sector on AI (committing to invest $1.4 trillion in the US) or on renewable energy as driven by Dr Sultan Al Jaber, Minister of Industry and Advanced Technology, who recently met Vice President JD Vance in the US.
Thereby the UAE creates the right conditions for mutual co-operation and innovation laying the foundation for future success and economic prosperity by being early movers on an important technology such as AI. The excellent relationship between Mr Trump and the Gulf states is also reflected in the fact that the US President has chosen the UAE, Saudi Arabia and Qatar for his first trip abroad.
Mr Trump’s tariff policies dominate global headlines, with duties of up to 145 per cent on many Chinese imports and a threatened 20 per cent on EU goods. These measures aim to address trade imbalances but risk igniting a global trade war. The US trade-weighted average tariff has surged from 2 per cent last year to an estimated 24 per cent this month, the highest since 1930.
I grew up in a small export-oriented country in a globalised world and deeply believe in free trade. So naturally, I am not a fan of tariffs. Mr Trump, on the other hand, is known for a very protectionist approach. However, he is also pursuing a fiscal strategy with tariffs: by boosting domestic production, the US could increase tax revenues and attract foreign capital to the US Treasury bonds, which offer 4.5 per cent yields on 10-year notes – the highest in decades. Last year, tariffs generated $80 billion in US revenue; projections for this year estimate $200 billion. This could help the US refinance its $36 trillion debt.
Mr Trump’s first 100 days underscore a multipolar world where economic and security interests dominate. His efficiency reforms, tariffs and new foreign policy focus challenge Europe to adapt. It may feel unfamiliar to many Europeans, but the principle of “Europe First“ – an EU that prioritises its citizens’ interests over lecturing the world – is highly appropriate in these times.
European countries can also learn a lot from others. The Gulf countries, for example – especially the UAE under the leadership of President Sheikh Mohamed – have found an elegant way to maintain a good partnership with the US while at the same time looking after their own interests. Europe must seize this moment to reform its defence, refine its foreign policy and sharpen its economic edge.
The world is not waiting for anyone to catch up – it is time to act before the next global shift leaves it further behind.
Other acts on the Jazz Garden bill
Sharrie Williams
The American singer is hugely respected in blues circles due to her passionate vocals and songwriting. Born and raised in Michigan, Williams began recording and touring as a teenage gospel singer. Her career took off with the blues band The Wiseguys. Such was the acclaim of their live shows that they toured throughout Europe and in Africa. As a solo artist, Williams has also collaborated with the likes of the late Dizzy Gillespie, Van Morrison and Mavis Staples.
Lin Rountree
An accomplished smooth jazz artist who blends his chilled approach with R‘n’B. Trained at the Duke Ellington School of the Arts in Washington, DC, Rountree formed his own band in 2004. He has also recorded with the likes of Kem, Dwele and Conya Doss. He comes to Dubai on the back of his new single Pass The Groove, from his forthcoming 2018 album Stronger Still, which may follow his five previous solo albums in cracking the top 10 of the US jazz charts.
Anita Williams
Dubai-based singer Anita Williams will open the night with a set of covers and swing, jazz and blues standards that made her an in-demand singer across the emirate. The Irish singer has been performing in Dubai since 2008 at venues such as MusicHall and Voda Bar. Her Jazz Garden appearance is career highlight as she will use the event to perform the original song Big Blue Eyes, the single from her debut solo album, due for release soon.
COMPANY%20PROFILE
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Anna and the Apocalypse
Director: John McPhail
Starring: Ella Hunt, Malcolm Cumming, Mark Benton
Three stars
Company profile
Name: Back to Games and Boardgame Space
Started: Back to Games (2015); Boardgame Space (Mark Azzam became co-founder in 2017)
Founder: Back to Games (Mr Azzam); Boardgame Space (Mr Azzam and Feras Al Bastaki)
Based: Dubai and Abu Dhabi
Industry: Back to Games (retail); Boardgame Space (wholesale and distribution)
Funding: Back to Games: self-funded by Mr Azzam with Dh1.3 million; Mr Azzam invested Dh250,000 in Boardgame Space
Growth: Back to Games: from 300 products in 2015 to 7,000 in 2019; Boardgame Space: from 34 games in 2017 to 3,500 in 2019
How to apply for a drone permit
- Individuals must register on UAE Drone app or website using their UAE Pass
- Add all their personal details, including name, nationality, passport number, Emiratis ID, email and phone number
- Upload the training certificate from a centre accredited by the GCAA
- Submit their request
What are the regulations?
- Fly it within visual line of sight
- Never over populated areas
- Ensure maximum flying height of 400 feet (122 metres) above ground level is not crossed
- Users must avoid flying over restricted areas listed on the UAE Drone app
- Only fly the drone during the day, and never at night
- Should have a live feed of the drone flight
- Drones must weigh 5 kg or less
Trump v Khan
2016: Feud begins after Khan criticised Trump’s proposed Muslim travel ban to US
2017: Trump criticises Khan’s ‘no reason to be alarmed’ response to London Bridge terror attacks
2019: Trump calls Khan a “stone cold loser” before first state visit
2019: Trump tweets about “Khan’s Londonistan”, calling him “a national disgrace”
2022: Khan’s office attributes rise in Islamophobic abuse against the major to hostility stoked during Trump’s presidency
July 2025 During a golfing trip to Scotland, Trump calls Khan “a nasty person”
Sept 2025 Trump blames Khan for London’s “stabbings and the dirt and the filth”.
Dec 2025 Trump suggests migrants got Khan elected, calls him a “horrible, vicious, disgusting mayor”
COMPANY PROFILE
Name: Lamsa
Founder: Badr Ward
Launched: 2014
Employees: 60
Based: Abu Dhabi
Sector: EdTech
Funding to date: $15 million
Desert Warrior
Starring: Anthony Mackie, Aiysha Hart, Ben Kingsley
Director: Rupert Wyatt
Rating: 3/5
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THE SPECS
Engine: 6.0-litre, twin-turbocharged W12
Transmission: eight-speed automatic
Power: 626bhp
Torque: 900Nm
Price: Dh1,050,000
On sale: now
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Why it pays to compare
A comparison of sending Dh20,000 from the UAE using two different routes at the same time - the first direct from a UAE bank to a bank in Germany, and the second from the same UAE bank via an online platform to Germany - found key differences in cost and speed. The transfers were both initiated on January 30.
Route 1: bank transfer
The UAE bank charged Dh152.25 for the Dh20,000 transfer. On top of that, their exchange rate margin added a difference of around Dh415, compared with the mid-market rate.
Total cost: Dh567.25 - around 2.9 per cent of the total amount
Total received: €4,670.30
Route 2: online platform
The UAE bank’s charge for sending Dh20,000 to a UK dirham-denominated account was Dh2.10. The exchange rate margin cost was Dh60, plus a Dh12 fee.
Total cost: Dh74.10, around 0.4 per cent of the transaction
Total received: €4,756
The UAE bank transfer was far quicker – around two to three working days, while the online platform took around four to five days, but was considerably cheaper. In the online platform transfer, the funds were also exposed to currency risk during the period it took for them to arrive.
Labour dispute
The insured employee may still file an ILOE claim even if a labour dispute is ongoing post termination, but the insurer may suspend or reject payment, until the courts resolve the dispute, especially if the reason for termination is contested. The outcome of the labour court proceedings can directly affect eligibility.
- Abdullah Ishnaneh, Partner, BSA Law
Classification of skills
A worker is categorised as skilled by the MOHRE based on nine levels given in the International Standard Classification of Occupations (ISCO) issued by the International Labour Organisation.
A skilled worker would be someone at a professional level (levels 1 – 5) which includes managers, professionals, technicians and associate professionals, clerical support workers, and service and sales workers.
The worker must also have an attested educational certificate higher than secondary or an equivalent certification, and earn a monthly salary of at least Dh4,000.
First Person
Richard Flanagan
Chatto & Windus
How to wear a kandura
Dos
- Wear the right fabric for the right season and occasion
- Always ask for the dress code if you don’t know
- Wear a white kandura, white ghutra / shemagh (headwear) and black shoes for work
- Wear 100 per cent cotton under the kandura as most fabrics are polyester
Don’ts
- Wear hamdania for work, always wear a ghutra and agal
- Buy a kandura only based on how it feels; ask questions about the fabric and understand what you are buying
Global Fungi Facts
• Scientists estimate there could be as many as 3 million fungal species globally
• Only about 160,000 have been officially described leaving around 90% undiscovered
• Fungi account for roughly 90% of Earth's unknown biodiversity
• Forest fungi help tackle climate change, absorbing up to 36% of global fossil fuel emissions annually and storing around 5 billion tonnes of carbon in the planet's topsoil
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Tamkeen's offering
- Option 1: 70% in year 1, 50% in year 2, 30% in year 3
- Option 2: 50% across three years
- Option 3: 30% across five years
Who's who in Yemen conflict
Houthis: Iran-backed rebels who occupy Sanaa and run unrecognised government
Yemeni government: Exiled government in Aden led by eight-member Presidential Leadership Council
Southern Transitional Council: Faction in Yemeni government that seeks autonomy for the south
Habrish 'rebels': Tribal-backed forces feuding with STC over control of oil in government territory
UAE currency: the story behind the money in your pockets
THE SPECS
Engine: 2.0-litre 4-cylinder turbo
Power: 275hp at 6,600rpm
Torque: 353Nm from 1,450-4,700rpm
Transmission: 8-speed dual-clutch auto
Top speed: 250kph
Fuel consumption: 6.8L/100km
On sale: Now
Price: Dh146,999
The President's Cake
Director: Hasan Hadi
Starring: Baneen Ahmad Nayyef, Waheed Thabet Khreibat, Sajad Mohamad Qasem
Rating: 4/5
The specs: 2019 GMC Yukon Denali
Price, base: Dh306,500
Engine: 6.2-litre V8
Transmission: 10-speed automatic
Power: 420hp @ 5,600rpm
Torque: 621Nm @ 4,100rpm
Fuel economy, combined: 12.9L / 100km
The White Lotus: Season three
Creator: Mike White
Starring: Walton Goggins, Jason Isaacs, Natasha Rothwell
Rating: 4.5/5
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Skoda Superb Specs
Engine: 2-litre TSI petrol
Power: 190hp
Torque: 320Nm
Price: From Dh147,000
Available: Now
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Indoor cricket in a nutshell
Indoor Cricket World Cup - Sep 16-20, Insportz, Dubai
16 Indoor cricket matches are 16 overs per side
8 There are eight players per team
9 There have been nine Indoor Cricket World Cups for men. Australia have won every one.
5 Five runs are deducted from the score when a wickets falls
4 Batsmen bat in pairs, facing four overs per partnership
Scoring In indoor cricket, runs are scored by way of both physical and bonus runs. Physical runs are scored by both batsmen completing a run from one crease to the other. Bonus runs are scored when the ball hits a net in different zones, but only when at least one physical run is score.
Zones
A Front net, behind the striker and wicketkeeper: 0 runs
B Side nets, between the striker and halfway down the pitch: 1 run
C Side nets between halfway and the bowlers end: 2 runs
D Back net: 4 runs on the bounce, 6 runs on the full
THE SPECS
Engine: Four-cylinder 2.5-litre
Transmission: Seven-speed auto
Power: 165hp
Torque: 241Nm
Price: Dh99,900 to Dh134,000
On sale: now
