The claim that there were "no wars" under President Donald Trump's administration from 2017 to 2021 requires some context and clarification:
- Military Engagements:
- While no new major wars were declared or officially named during Trump's term, there were ongoing military operations and conflicts:
- Afghanistan: U.S. troops continued to engage in combat operations against the Taliban and other groups. The Trump administration negotiated and signed the Doha Agreement in February 2020, aiming for a U.S. troop withdrawal, but combat did not cease entirely.
- Syria: U.S. forces were involved in operations against ISIS and in support of Kurdish forces, with skirmishes occurring, particularly with Iranian-backed militias and occasionally with Turkish forces.
- Iraq: There was an increase in tensions with Iran, leading to military strikes, including the assassination of Qasem Soleimani in January 2020.
- Yemen: The U.S. provided support to Saudi-led coalition efforts, which included military actions.
- Drone Strikes and Special Operations:
- Trump's presidency saw an increase in drone strikes, particularly in countries like Somalia, where U.S. forces were involved in counter-terrorism efforts against al-Shabaab.
- Interpretation of "War":
- The term "war" can be interpreted differently. If one strictly defines "war" as a formal declaration by Congress, then indeed, no new wars were declared. However, there were numerous military engagements, operations, and an active continuation of existing conflicts.
- Peace Agreements:
- Trump's administration did work towards peace agreements, notably the Abraham Accords, which normalized relations between Israel and several Arab countries, but this does not negate ongoing military activities elsewhere.
- The narrative that there were "no wars under Trump" can be seen as part of political rhetoric aimed at contrasting his foreign policy with that of his predecessors or successors, emphasizing diplomacy or a different approach to military engagement.
In summary, while Trump's administration did not start any new officially named wars, it cannot be said there were "no wars" if one considers the broader scope of military actions, ongoing conflicts, and the use of force in various capacities around the globe during his term. This perspective is crucial for a comprehensive understanding of the period's geopolitical activities.
@Grok
