United States President-elect Donald Trump has reaffirmed his isolationist foreign policy stance, declaring that the United States should avoid involvement in Syria as rebel forces reportedly close in on the capital, Damascus.
“Syria is a mess, but is not our friend, & THE UNITED STATES SHOULD HAVE NOTHING TO DO WITH IT. THIS IS NOT OUR FIGHT. LET IT PLAY OUT. DO NOT GET INVOLVED!” Trump posted on his Truth Social platform on Saturday.
The statement came shortly before Trump’s arrival at the Élysée Palace to meet French President Emmanuel Macron during his visit to Paris for the reopening of the historic Notre Dame Cathedral.
It is unclear why Trump raised the issue of Syria at this time. However, some analysts believe the statement may be intended to discourage outgoing President Joe Biden from any potential military engagement in the region before Trump’s inauguration on January 20. Notably, there has been no indication from the Biden administration that such an intervention is under consideration.
Trump’s approach aligns with his longstanding commitment to limiting U.S. involvement in foreign conflicts. Throughout his presidential campaign, he repeatedly pledged to end international wars quickly and prioritise American interests.
The Notre Dame event, which has drawn approximately 50 world leaders, offers Trump an early opportunity to re-establish himself on the global stage. Among the attendees is Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, who is expected to meet with Trump during the visit.
Both Zelensky and Russian President Vladimir Putin are under increasing international pressure to find a resolution to the ongoing war in Ukraine.
In his Truth Social post, Trump also addressed Russia’s struggles in Syria, suggesting their influence in the region is waning. “Russia, with the loss there of over 600,000 soldiers, seems incapable of stopping this literal march through Syria, a country they have protected for years,” he wrote.
He continued, “But now they are, like possibly Assad himself, being forced out, and it may actually be the best thing that can happen to them. There was never much of a benefit in Syria for Russia.”
Trump’s comments highlight his intention to avoid foreign entanglements and reshape U.S. foreign policy. As he prepares to assume office, his stance signals a shift towards a more inward-focused approach to global affairs.
