As Donald Trump’s advisors prepare for his second term, attention is focused on weakening the so-called ‘Axis of Upheaval.’ This group, supported by Chinese funds, Russian military actions, and the destabilizing roles of Iran and North Korea, seeks to challenge U.S. dominance and promote a multipolar world centered around Beijing.
According to a senior source close to Trump’s team, the Axis is currently at a low point. “China’s finances are struggling, Russia’s military efforts in Ukraine and Syria have failed, Iran’s proxies are weakened, North Korea is sidelined, and now Trump is back,” the source said.
A Shift from Neo-Isolationism
Observers speculate Trump’s second term will pivot from the isolationist policies seen during his first presidency. Instead, the administration plans to restore U.S. global influence, fulfilling Trump’s “Make America Great Again” pledge. This strategy closely mirrors the 1992 Wolfowitz Doctrine, emphasizing U.S. primacy.
Prioritizing Ukraine
Ending the war in Ukraine tops Trump’s agenda. The team aims to diminish Russia’s financial ability to wage war by slashing its oil and gas revenues. The focus will be on liquefied natural gas (LNG), which became critical after the 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
“Sanctions will target key LNG projects,” the source said, referencing expanded measures from August. These included penalties on Russia’s Ust Luga LNG Terminal and Arctic LNG 2 project.
European Cooperation
Trump’s team has secured European support to tighten restrictions on Russian energy exports. Recent EU sanctions focus on halting Russia’s use of a shadow fleet for oil and LNG transport. By 2027, the EU aims to end all Russian fossil fuel imports.
Targeting Iran and Iraq
Plans are also in place to sanction Iraq for aiding Iran’s energy exports. Similar measures were enforced during Trump’s first term when Iraqi entities were penalized for facilitating Iranian oil smuggling. The aim is to cut funding to groups like the Islamic Revolutionary Guard Corps (IRGC).
Global Implications
The broader strategy includes targeting financial networks in China and elsewhere that support Iran and other adversaries. Trump’s team aims to hold all Axis members accountable for actions against U.S. interests.
This bold agenda underscores Trump’s intention to reassert U.S. power globally, with LNG serving as a key lever in achieving these goals.
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