President Donald Trump speaks at an event marking the 250th anniversary of the United States' founding on July 4 in Washington. (©AP via Kyodo)
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The United States marked the 250th anniversary of its founding on July 4, Independence Day. In a speech marking the occasion, President Donald Trump declared that America has been "the hope, the promise, the light, and the glory among all of the nations of the world," and vowed to take the country to "new levels." He also stated, "We don't want communists in our country."
The President's remarks underscored a determination to press ahead despite the country's enduring tensions between its founding ideals and present-day realities. At a time of growing global instability, the United States remains essential to advancing freedom and democracy as a leading superpower.
The Declaration of Independence, which Trump praised, proclaims that "all men are created equal" and possess the rights to "life, liberty, and the pursuit of happiness." Those principles have profoundly shaped the development of modern democracy.
Following two world wars, the United States took the lead in building an international order founded on democracy, the rule of law, and free trade, serving as a pillar of global prosperity and stability throughout much of the 20th century.
During the Cold War, it stood alongside Japan and Western Europe and ultimately played a central role in the collapse of the Soviet Union, the leader of the communist bloc.
Divisions at Home
Today, however, the United States is deeply divided. Disputes over economic inequality, diversity, and immigration continue to fuel political polarization. In many ways, the contradictions within American society itself paved the way for Trump's rise.
The United States has also stepped back from its traditional role as the guarantor of the international order. It has withdrawn from international organizations and fallen behind on payments to the United Nations. Its National Security Strategy released last year declared that the era in which the United States underpinned the global order had come to an end.
A Changing Balance
As the United States has become more inward-looking, authoritarian states have grown increasingly bold in seeking to change the status quo by force. China, in particular, has expanded its economic and military influence in an effort to reshape the international order to better serve its own interests.
Concern over China is shared by both Republicans and Democrats. At the same time, there is growing reluctance in Washington to bear the global responsibilities that the United States assumed during the Cold War. As a result, it is calling on allies and other like-minded nations to shoulder a greater share of the burden.
The United States has also made significant policy missteps. Trump's tariff policies have drawn opposition from many countries, while the consequences of the Iran war continue to unfold. Nevertheless, one reality remains unchanged: the world still expects the United States to play a leading role in international affairs.
Strengthening the Japan-US Alliance
Japan fought a fierce war against the United States during World War II before its defeat. In the postwar era, however, it chose its alliance with the United States as the cornerstone of its national security.
At a time when China and other authoritarian powers pose growing challenges, Japan should further strengthen that alliance and work closely with the US to safeguard peace and stability in the international community.
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Author: The Sankei Shimbun
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