U.S. Historian Robert Kagan: "We Are Watching a Country Fall Under Dictatorship Almost Without Resistance"
Der Spiegel
February 20, 2026
AI-Generated Deep Dive Summary
U.S. historian Robert Kagan has issued a stark warning about the current political climate, describing it as potentially more dangerous than any period since 1945. In an interview, he argued that President Donald Trump is leading the world into an era of heightened instability and conflict, with far-reaching implications for global security and diplomacy. Drawing comparisons to the Cold War, Kagan suggested that today’s challenges are even more perilous, as Trump’s policies and rhetoric have eroded trust in American leadership and emboldened authoritarian regimes.
Kagan emphasized that Trump’s presidency has upended decades of established international norms, from challenging alliances with NATO partners to cozying up to adversarial powers like Russia. He pointed to the administration’s focus on issues such as Russia collusion and China trade policies as evidence of a broader shift in U.S. foreign policy. According to Kagan, these actions have not only weakened democratic values but also created opportunities for authoritarian leaders to expand their influence, further destabilizing global order.
The historian also highlighted the growing divide between democracy and authoritarianism, a conflict he believes is becoming increasingly central to international relations. Drawing parallels to historical examples like Nazi Germany, Kagan warned that the erosion of democratic institutions could lead to irreversible consequences. While some may dismiss these concerns as overblown, Kagan’s perspective underscores the importance of understanding the risks posed by rising tensions and the decline of U.S. leadership on the world stage.
Critics argue that Trump’s policies have not necessarily led to the collapse of democracy, but rather a necessary recalibration of American foreign policy. However, Kagan’s warnings serve as a reminder of the high stakes involved in navigating this new era of global politics. As tensions rise and alliances shift, the implications for world stability—and the role of the United States within it—remain uncertain.
Ultimately, Kagan’s commentary raises critical questions about the future of democracy, the balance of power, and the potential for conflict in an increasingly fragmented world. His insights provide a valuable lens through which to understand the challenges of our time, even as debates over Trump’s legacy continue to unfold.
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Originally published on Der Spiegel on 2/20/2026