Donald Trump had three significant meetings this past week in the Oval Office; only one created a global crisis. However, the American President’s meeting with UK Prime Minister Keir Starmer should be reviewed by those in Saskatchewan currently attempting to make a dent in U.S. policy.
Starmer genuflected deeply in an effort to secure one promise: an American security guarantee for the territorial integrity of Ukraine. He offered a massive increase in UK defence spending (paid for by gutting Britain’s overseas aid programs and widely viewed as a betrayal of the world’s poorest.)
These gifts were received, but had no impact. Starmer got nothing for his troubles, save for a cabinet resignation
So, like all good politicians, Starmer pivoted. On the fly, in the wake of the Zelensky meeting, the Prime Minister began working on organizing a coalition of the willing. He saw the political terrain shifting beneath his feet and rapidly came to the realization that new strategies were required.
Saskatchewan’s political leadership should take note of this. The particular absence of strong condemnation of Trump’s actions by Premier Scott Moe is troubling. Nonsense talk about pre-approving any pipeline work in Saskatchewan is a) needlessly provocative and b) pointless, since he doesn’t have that authority.
It’s time for our Premier to listen to the quiet voice inside his head: things are changing. The status quo is evaporating. The United States will not be a reliable trade or political partner for the next four years, or perhaps even longer.
Attempting to appease the current US administration is a fool’s errand. Commitments made and undertakings agreed to on Wednesday lie shattered on the floor by Wednesday.
Channel the UK response. Pivot, adapt, re-tool. Cut your losses and start building stronger relationships with Europe and Asian trading partners. We’ll all be better off.
Many places in this province had temperatures above zero today. That which looked like cement hours ago is softening and collapsing. Much like our current world order.
As always, if you’re looking for a metaphor, prairie weather is generally a good one.
Ian Hanna 