Apec and G20 summits in shadow of Trump’s presidential win

WORLD leaders are making final preparations for the upcoming Apec summit in Peru, and the G20 in Brazil. Yet, the minds and behaviour of many political and business leaders at the summits will be shaped by someone who won’t actually be in the meetings: US President-elect Donald Trump.

Trump’s clear win on Nov 5 has shaken the foundations not just of US politics, but also international relations. His election means that US allies and foes alike are now preparing for his second helping of “America First” which may be much more radical than the first, reshaping the international order into the 2030s.

Take the example of the president-elect’s conversation last Thursday (Nov 7) with Russian President Vladimir Putin. This comes amid much speculation that Trump will try to push through a peace deal with Ukraine after assuming office next year, sending a chill across Kyiv and much of the rest of Europe.