The world faces a major challenge as the United States, once the protector of the post-Cold War order, is now trampling upon international law, state sovereignty and long-held alliances with friendly nations.

In his first term, U.S. President Donald Trump bristled against order and rules but went only so far as isolation.

But with Jan. 20 marking one year into his second term, Trump is trying to convert the world from one based on rule of law to rule by power.

The eventual destination will be an orderless world of survival of the fittest in which major powers use their military superiority to rule.

We cannot allow such folly.

LEANING TOWARD SPHERES OF INFLUENCE

The U.S. military action against Venezuela was especially serious. Not only was a sovereign state invaded and its president detained, but Trump also said he wanted to run the country.

The military move blatantly treads on respect for sovereignty that is the foundation of international law.

What cannot be overlooked is Trump’s comment that priority would be placed on having U.S. companies rebuild the Venezuelan petroleum industry, a clear sign that he intends to control natural resources before holding fair elections or promoting democracy in the country.

The United States has previously used military power against sovereign states without having a U.N. resolution.

But in those cases, discussions were held on the appropriateness of such moves, and Washington at least proclaimed a “just cause,” such as humanitarian engagement or to deal with weapons of mass destruction.

No such principle has........

© The Asahi Shimbun