What Trump’s exit from Syria would mean for Assad, Putin and America’s global image

Trump has thus, in principle, stated that America would exit from the Syrian imbroglio, and told advisers as much. He has also ordered the State Department to freeze more than US$200 million in funds for Syria while his team reassesses Washington’s role in the conflict there. This will be unfortunate.

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The United States has played a vital and determining role in resolving global conflicts or balancing dictators since the second world war.

Now that the US is said to be en route to becoming self-sufficient in oil, as crude oil and natural gas production continues to grow in the country, it is possible that America will become a little more insular.

This would be unfortunate. For the power and presence of America’s military force has been a factor in preventing dictators and despots from pursuing their dreams aggressively across the globe.

Ordinary citizens slept a bit more peacefully for the presence of America in resolving global conflicts. If America withdraws totally, the rest of the world will have to learn to sleep with one eye open.

Rajendra Aneja, Mumbai