Indonesia's Strategic Balance in the Trump Era

Donald Trump tops the vote in the United States. (Instagram @realdonaldtrump)

Donald Trump's victory in the US presidential election brings a breath of fresh air as well as new challenges for Indonesia. Trump's foreign policy, which often prioritizes US national interests, requires Indonesia to be careful in navigating relations with this superpower. Trump's pro-Israel stance, especially regarding the Palestinian issue, is a major concern that tests Indonesia's commitment as a supporter of Palestinian independence.

As the 45th US President who served from 2017 to 2021, Trump is back in the public spotlight with his victory as the 47th President of the United States in 2024. His unconventional foreign policy and frequent disregard for international norms during his previous term had a wide impact, including the recognition of Jerusalem as the capital of Israel. This move has drawn global criticism and has the potential to affect the stability of the Middle East region. Indonesia, which is known as a strong supporter of Palestine, is now faced with the challenge of maintaining its position amidst US foreign policy that favors Israel.

In response to Donald Trump's victory, the President of the Republic of Indonesia, Prabowo Subianto, through his social media, openly congratulated Trump. The statement reflects the opportunity for better cooperation between the two countries. However, Indonesia needs to carry out constructive and proactive diplomacy. This is the right time for Indonesia to strengthen its position. In this case, concrete steps such as increasing involvement in international diplomacy through forums such as the UN and ASEAN are very important to reaffirm its support for Palestinian independence.

On the other hand, maintaining good relations with the US is also very crucial, especially in the context of trade and investment. Amid Trump's protectionist policies, Indonesia must be smart in taking steps to protect its economic interests. Strengthening economic cooperation with countries in the Southeast Asian region can be an effective strategy to reduce dependence on one major power. This is the right time for Indonesia to promote local products and expand export markets.

Facing Trump's foreign policy, Indonesia must stick to the basic principles of a free and active foreign policy. This includes respecting human rights and supporting social justice, including the struggle of the Palestinian people. As a country with a long history of international solidarity, Indonesia must be a strong voice in opposing all forms of colonialism and injustice.

Moreover, this week Prabowo Subianto will make a state visit to China and the United States. In the context of relations with China, Indonesia needs to find a careful balance. Economic relations with China are crucial for Indonesia’s economic growth, but it remains wary of the potential for China’s influence to change the geopolitical dynamics in the region. The right strategy is to establish mutually beneficial cooperation with these two great powers, without sacrificing the values ​​it believes in.

Amidst this uncertainty, the question arises: can Indonesia use this moment to become a more influential diplomatic force? At a time when many countries are caught in the struggle between two great powers, Indonesia has the opportunity to be a bridge, not only between the US and China, but also in the struggle of the Palestinian people. Imagine if Indonesia could facilitate constructive dialogue and create a proactive foreign policy.

The courage to take a firm position in the face of this global challenge could be a step that further strengthens Indonesia’s position in the international world. Perhaps, behind all the political noise, there is an opportunity for Indonesia to carve out a role as a leader in global diplomacy. This is where the real surprise lies—not just relying on great power, but realizing the vision of a free and active Indonesia in the international arena. In this somewhat out-of-the-ordinary Trump era, Indonesia’s bold move could be a ray of hope for many countries that yearn for justice and peace. Moreover, in his first speech after being elected, Donald Trump stated that there would be no war as long as he led the United States.