Fanshawe College students and a political science professor say they are concerned about U.S. President Donald Trump’s interest in Greenland and his remarks during a speech in Switzerland Wednesday, one year into his presidency.
For many observers, the first year of Trump’s presidency was marked by a lot of unpredictability and strained ties with long-standing allies, including Canada.
Students at Fanshawe College say Trump’s actions feel alarming and extreme.
“I do think it’s a little crazy with everything that’s happening with Donald Trump,” said Emily a student at Fanshawe. “Obviously, him trying to take over Greenland and then him trying to take over us.”
Another student said Trump’s behaviour signals a broader disregard for international boundaries. “He’s invading and basically dismantling the sovereignty of other countries, including Venezuela and the attempt on Greenland,” Alexander said.
A third student described Trump’s rhetoric as increasingly dangerous. “He’s becoming quite an extremist. All of his actions and threats are just illogical,” Phillip said.
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But a political observer noted Trump’s first year highlights the tight grip he maintains over the Republican Party.
“What’s become really evident is the stranglehold that he has on his supporters in the Republican Party more broadly,” said Fanshawe political science professor Matt Farrell.
He pointed to the Greenland discussion as an example, noting it was not included in the administration’s national security strategy, yet quickly gained support among party members.
Farrell, who is often interviewed by media as a political expert, said Trump’s leadership style blurs the line between domestic politics and foreign policy.
“It’s sort of Trump first, and by extension that means America first,” he said, adding Trump often delivers the same message to both domestic audiences and international leaders.
He warned that this approach could strain alliances.
“Power matters, leverage matters, and they will use those tools to get what they want,” Farrell said, noting that long-standing voluntary constraints between countries are increasingly being ignored.
Looking ahead, Farrell expects continued uncertainty.
“Instability seems to be the norm,” he said, adding that unpredictability can hurt markets and international relationships.
As Trump’s term continues, students and experts say the global community may face more turbulence, with few signs of a shift toward stability.
