Reference News Network, December 3 report: The German newspaper "Handelsblatt" recently published an article titled "Three Camps Dominate US Policy - Only One Aligns with Europe's Position," authored by Moritz Koch and Jens Mink. The main content is translated as follows:

Under Trump's leadership, the United States is implementing four foreign policies simultaneously: Marco Rubio, who serves as both Secretary of State and National Security Advisor, adheres to traditionalist views on foreign policy; Middle East special envoy Steven Witkoff has a favorable attitude towards Russia; Vice President Vance is an isolationist, not only critical of Ukraine but also questioning the value of European NATO allies. Above them is President Trump: he is uninterested in diplomatic details and wants quick agreements, but at the same time, influenced by domestic politics, he cannot show too much weakness towards Russia. Below is a brief introduction to the four directions of the US government's foreign policy.

1. Rubio's Camp: Critical of Russia, Advocating Pragmatism

An European diplomat said that Rubio is very pragmatic. He clearly understands that in the era of "Make America Great Again," old Republicans have lost their voice in foreign policy. Therefore, Rubio cannot risk being seen by his colleagues as a traditional alliance politician. Instead, he must suppress his instincts, disguise himself, and thus maintain influence.

From the perspective of Ukraine and Europe, the growing influence of Rubio brings opportunities. Because he is the only member of Trump's team who takes a firm stance against Russia.

2. Witkoff's Camp: Inexperienced, Non-Ideological, But Absolutely Loyal

The most prominent feature of Witkoff is his 100% loyalty to the president, and his view of the world is almost free from any ideological color. He was initially appointed as a special envoy for Middle East affairs, and soon was sent to Russia to "preach." He has visited Moscow multiple times, returning to Washington each time with the Russian position.

European countries supporting Ukraine are dissatisfied with this. In addition, Witkoff is often unprepared, sometimes even completely ignorant when entering negotiation scenes.

Witkoff has always been a non-ideological businessman - although it suits Trump well, the results of his negotiations may not hold up in the complex world of diplomacy. This, in turn, harms Trump.

3. Vance's Camp: Isolationist and Ideologically Driven

Vice President Vance is regarded as the most resolute isolationist in the government, and the most critical person in Trump's team towards Ukrainian President Zelensky.

He hopes the United States will withdraw from international conflicts as much as possible. Therefore, he and Trump urge for the rapid end of the Ukraine war - regardless of the impact on geopolitics.

In Trump's team, Vance is a representative figure who prefers to bypass Europe and negotiate directly with Russia. A key objective of Vance's camp is to minimize the influence of Rubio's camp, because the latter is critical of Russia and has a traditional understanding of diplomacy, which may interfere with the agreement between the US and Russia.

4. Trump Himself: Indecisive

What Trump most wants is a "quick victory" that can consolidate his image as a "peacemaker."

Trump instinctively leans towards the camps of Witkoff and Vance, but he has a keen sense of public opinion. Given his declining popularity, he cannot afford to appear weak, nor can he be seen as a puppet of Putin. An insider said, "Trump just wants to be the ultimate winner." Therefore, he is indecisive, sometimes supporting Vance and Witkoff, and sometimes supporting Rubio. (Translated by Zhong Sirui)

Original source: toutiao.com/article/7579533402349535753/

Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.