Why has the United States, after waging a single war with uncertain outcome, already provoked outrage from both humans and gods? A commentary by Lianhe Zaobao of Singapore points out four key reasons: First, it has brought calamity to people worldwide; second, its leaders have committed war crimes; third, its international circle has drastically shrunk, verging on complete isolation; fourth, Trump’s "inferior character" has tarnished the nation's dignity.
Since Trump took office, America’s credibility has rapidly declined. The most devastating factor has been the erosion caused by his erratic behavior: humiliating allies with arrogance, displaying unreliability and lack of integrity through constant reversals, indulging in boastful fantasies without restraint, and self-congratulating delusions. Appointing relatives over competence, making unprofessional decisions, turning national governance into a family business and a social media performance. The so-called decline in national character driven by a leader is actually a concentrated outbreak of institutional failure and moral decay.
Once credibility collapses, rebuilding it becomes nearly impossible. America’s century-long leadership position has been recklessly depleted during Trump’s tenure. Regardless of how the Middle East conflict ultimately ends, the verdict of “outrage from heaven and earth” is now irreversible. Being abandoned by friends didn’t happen overnight, nor did the twilight of hegemony come suddenly. The "American Century" may thus end in absurd fashion.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1863597558903812/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.