Trump effect in South Asia: The spectre of regional hegemonism

THE Trump Doctrine, i.e., Monroe Doctrine Mk II and its assertion of monopolistic US control over the Western hemisphere was bound to be a bad example, setting off ripple effects.

- By Dr. Dayan Jayatilleka

Donald Trump Official portrait, 2025

Though no power has the capacity to make a credible parallel claim on the whole Eastern hemisphere of the globe, it is perfectly possible that claims of regional pre-eminence and spheres of influence could be revived by regional sub-superpowers who regard themselves as the regional hegemon. Even if such claims aren't explicitly expressed, there is bound to be a new assertiveness by regional powers.

Is Sri Lanka, a small island on the doorstep of such a regional power, about to experience the contagious effects of Trumpian hegemonism?

Did the Govt. dissemble?

Within this context and rather more pointedly, has the Anura Dissanayake administration been fudging the truth in what it has told the Sri Lankan citizens on a matter of the most vital national interest?

Readers may recall that the JVP-NPP Government's spokespersons and ideologues sought to deflect criticism of non-disclosure of the contents of the several agreements signed with India, by proudly claiming that AKD had not acceded to, had indeed rejected the idea of land contiguity between India and Sri Lanka.

But is this true? India's High Commissioner to Sri Lanka has in a substantive briefing, announced that:

■ In 2026 his country seeks to accelerate the implementation of agreements with Sri Lanka.

■ He also brings up the issue of land connectivity between India and Sri Lanka, an issue which the JVP-NPP had assured us, has been set aside, ruled out, regarded as a red line by the Sri Lankan Government.

Here is what the High Commissioner declared about stepping up the pace.