Redefining US Leadership: US Diplomatic Theatre and the Retreat from Multilateralism

by Eva Kristinova

In this paper, we discuss:

• The US shift away from multilateral engagement under an “America First” strategy;
• Retreat from climate and social justice commitments, alongside more erratic behaviour at the UN;
• A strategy of selective withdrawal with continued influence, reshaping global governance rather than abandoning it.

Download PDF: US and Multilateralism – January 2026