https://apnews.com/article/philippines-japan-south-china-sea-trump-139fa39c790569026400afbdccda14cd
As President-elect Donald Trump’s inauguration into presidency approaches, Japan and the Philippines plan to show Trump the need of US engagement in Asia. An alliance between the three countries build with Joe Biden, however, Japan and the Philippines fear the United States disengagement in Asia following Trump’s inauguration into the presidency. Trump’s “America First” policy causes the lack of trust in US commitment once Trump is president. The plea for US engagement comes at a time of hostility from China in the South China Sea and East China Sea. The Chinese coast guard fired powerful water cannons, blocked, and sideswiped Philippine patrol vessels in these past days, all apart of a surge of confrontations between China and Philippine coast guard. Chinese government views the waters in which the Philippines were as undisputedly Chinese territory, yet the United States government condemns China’s attack.
As tensions rise in Asia, the complete withdrawal of foreign policy or rather foreign aid/assistance in any manner, is truly in the United States best interest. Would it be “America First” if we lose our world influence? Especially since we are keeping communism at bay since the cold war, how would that look for the United States to let countries fall once more? I think it is vital to continue our relations and influence across the globe. Yes, the extent in which we extend our aid should be discussed, yet no standing whatsoever will be detrimental to the United States, economically, politically, and ethically speaking.
Offshore balancing could best describe as policy where foreign involvement coincides with focus on domestic affairs. As opposed to a rather isolationist approach Trump insues, Offshore Balancing would allow the United States to uphold influence globally without the significant stress of being the world Hegemon. Thus, we would be able to keep our influence in Asia, ensuring the safety of our allies, all the while focusing our domestic growth and development.