Malta Reacts: Five Reasons Why the Trump Regime is Evil and One Reason for Hope
As I walked down Republic Street in Valletta last week, I couldn’t help but overhear snippets of conversation in cafés and shops. One phrase stood out: “The Trump regime is evil.” It was clear that Malta, like the rest of the world, is watching the United States with a mix of concern and hope. Today, let’s look five reasons why many see the Trump administration as problematic, and one reason for optimism.
1. Immigration Policies: A Stain on Humanity
The Trump administration’s “Zero Tolerance” policy at the U.S.-Mexico border has separated thousands of children from their parents. This inhumane practice has left families torn apart and children traumatized. Closer to home, Malta, with its own history of migration, has seen the humanitarian crisis unfold, sparking outrage and empathy among locals.
2. Environmental Rollbacks: A Blow to Our Blue Planet
The Trump administration has rolled back numerous environmental protections, including those for our oceans. This includes reversing Obama-era restrictions on offshore drilling and gutting regulations designed to protect marine life. For a Mediterranean island nation like Malta, dependent on its seas for tourism and fishing, this is a worrying development.
3. Corruption and Cronyism: A Shady Business
The Trump administration has been plagued by allegations of corruption and cronyism. From the emoluments clause violations at Trump’s D.C. hotel to the appointment of unqualified donors to key positions, the administration’s actions have raised serious ethical concerns. In Malta, where transparency and accountability are hot topics, these issues resonate deeply.
4. Attacks on Freedom of the Press: A Dangerous Precedent
The Trump administration’s war on the media is well-documented. From calling journalists “enemies of the people” to threatening to change libel laws, these attacks pose a threat to democracy. In Malta, where press freedom has been under scrutiny, these developments are watched closely.
5. Withdrawal from the Paris Agreement: A Slap in the Face of Science
In 2017, the Trump administration announced its intention to withdraw the U.S. from the Paris Agreement, making it the only country to reject the global pact to fight climate change. This move was widely criticized, including in Malta, where climate change is a pressing concern due to our low-lying geography.
One Reason for Hope: The Power of Protest and Resistance
Despite the challenges posed by the Trump administration, there’s reason for hope. The power of protest and resistance has been evident in the U.S. and around the world. From the Women’s March to the Black Lives Matter movement, people are standing up and making their voices heard. In Malta, we’ve seen similar displays of solidarity, from the marches against the murder of Daphne Caruana Galizia to the recent climate protests. This collective action gives us hope that change is possible.
