Biden and Trump foreign policy- Chomsy Key Differences
Introduction
Noam Chomsky’s analysis of U.S. foreign policy under Biden and Trump emphasizes continuity in imperial objectives, though he acknowledges minor differences in rhetoric and tactics. Here’s his breakdown of key distinctions and overlaps:
Core Continuities
Chomsky argues that Biden’s foreign policy remains rooted in the same imperial logic as Trump’s, prioritizing U.S. hegemony and corporate interests:
Iran Policy
Biden maintained Trump’s “maximum pressure” sanctions and demands for a harsher nuclear deal, despite framing it as a return to diplomacy.
China Containment
Both administrations escalated confrontation via alliances (e.g., AUKUS) and tech embargoes, treating China’s rise as an existential threat.
Middle East Alliances
Biden continued Trump’s support for Saudi Arabia and Israel, despite human rights abuses.
Differences in Tactics and Rhetoric
While the strategic goals align, Chomsky notes nuanced shifts:
Tone Over Substance
Biden’s emphasis on “democracy promotion” and human rights contrasts with Trump’s transactional “America First” rhetoric but rarely translates to policy changes.
Diplomatic Gestures
Biden rejoined the Paris Climate Accord and extended the New START treaty with Russia, reversing Trump’s withdrawals.
Ukraine Approach
Biden adopted a “no negotiations” stance to weaken Russia, whereas Trump’s posture was more isolationist. Chomsky criticizes both for prioritizing dominance over diplomacy.
Areas of Marginal Divergence
Chomsky highlights limited Biden adjustments that avoid Trump’s most extreme measures:
Palestine
Biden restored some aid to Palestinians cut by Trump but maintained unconditional support for Israel’s occupation.
Climate Policy
Biden’s domestic climate investments mark a departure from Trump’s denialism, though global fossil fuel projects persist.
Immigration
Biden rolled back Trump’s family separation policy but retained harsh border enforcement and Title 42 expulsions.
Structural Criticisms
Chomsky dismisses partisan framing, arguing both presidents serve entrenched power structures:
Bipartisan Militarism
Biden’s $886 billion Pentagon budget and expanded NATO mirror Trump’s militarization.
Media Complicity
Both administrations benefit from media narratives that obscure imperial motives, whether through “liberal idealism” or “America First” nationalism.
Conclusion
For Chomsky, Biden and Trump represent “two factions of the business party” with minor stylistic differences.
While Biden adopts a more multilateral facade, both perpetuate a foreign policy defined by hegemony, militarism, and disregard for global equity.
As he notes, “The trajectory is not optimistic” under either.