February 20, 2025

EARLY AND OFTEN

Is Trump Building an International Authoritarian Alliance?

By Ed Kilgore

Elon Musk shows support for his scary German friends. Photo: Hendrik Schmidt/picture alliance/Getty

It’s hardly news that Donald Trump and many of his top subordinates intensely dislike NATO and the entire set of international alliances they have inherited, and are also fond of right-wing global pariahs like Hungary’s Viktor Orbán. But these inclinations are usually seen as subordinate to Trump’s America First orientation, in which the United States is generally less beholden to its allies and allowed to focus on its own interests, rather than the world’s many squabbles.

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Is Trump Building an International Authoritarian Alliance?

Is Trump Building an International Authoritarian Alliance?

Stay informed about business, politics, technology, and where they intersect.

Today's Top Stories

After thanking the Trump Justice Department for mercy, the mayor is told in court he could still be prosecuted.

By Victoria Bekiempis

Americans are still very unhappy with the economy. It’s a matter of time until the president gets some blame.

By Ed Kilgore

The governor reportedly wants new guardrails and an inspector general who will monitor the city and mayor.

By Intelligencer Staff

Kash Patel is now a very powerful man.

By Ed Kilgore

The Trump administration has officially pulled approval for New York’s tolling program. Now the courts will decide on its future.

By Nia Prater

The president has ordered their disclosure with a timeline that suggests it might actually happen this time.

By Matt Stieb

It’s probably illegal and definitely irresponsible, but Musk’s idea of rebating DOGE savings to taxpayers could be very seductive to Trump.

By Ed Kilgore

Everything to know about the First Son, suitcase enthusiast, and purported brains behind Donald Trump’s bro-podcast strategy.

By Margaret Hartmann

My Week in New York

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