The new foreign policy under Trump can be seen as a simplistic yet pragmatic doctrine that classifies countries into three categories: those that are allies, those that are adversaries, and those that are irrelevant. This approach reflects a stark, almost reductionist view of international relations, reminiscent of strategies employed during the Cold War. The focus is on realpolitik, where alliances and enmities are based on practical considerations rather than ideological ones.

Wolff's depiction suggests that Trump viewed the Cold War era as a period where the U.S. wielded unmatched global influence, and he aimed to return to that kind of assertiveness. By simplifying the international landscape, the Trump administration endeavored to navigate complex geopolitical challenges with a more straightforward framework. This perspective emphasizes power dynamics rather than nuanced diplomatic engagement.