Trump tests peace through strength with escalations | JQJO

Nine months into his second term, President Donald Trump is pursuing a Reagan-tinged “peace through strength” agenda marked by tariffs, military moves and nuclear testing hints. During an Asia trip, he canceled Canada trade talks, added a 10% tariff, the Navy struck suspected Pacific drug boats, and the USS Ford shifted toward Venezuela amid a major Latin America buildup. He teased possible nuclear testing and touted June strikes on Iranian nuclear facilities. Officials argue unpredictability boosts leverage, but a retired ambassador faults the lack of process, and an analyst warns against open-ended conflicts.