From Partnership to Pressure: U.S.–Pakistan Relations under George W. Bush & Donald Trump

Abstract

This research examines the evolution of U.S. foreign policy toward Pakistan during the Bush (2001–2009) and Trump (2017–2021) administrations, highlighting the strategic, operational, and political dynamics that shaped bilateral relations. Under the Bush administration, Pakistan was positioned as a frontline ally in the Global War on Terror, receiving substantial military and economic assistance, intelligence cooperation, and diplomatic support. While this partnership facilitated tactical counterterrorism successes, it reinforced Pakistan’s dependence on U.S. aid, strengthened military authority at the expense of civilian institutions, and allowed selective tolerance of militant sanctuaries. In contrast, the Trump administration adopted a transactional, accountability-driven approach characterized by aid suspension, public pressure, and a strategic tilt toward India, prompting Pakistan to diversify its partnerships toward China, Russia, and other regional actors. This comparative analysis highlights how U.S. policy shifted from partnership-based incentives to coercive measures, affecting Pakistan’s strategic autonomy, regional positioning, and domestic governance. Using a qualitative research design, the study draws on semi-structured interviews with academics, policymakers, diplomats, security analysts, and research scholars, complemented by official reports and archival data. The research employs Realism (Power and Security) as its theoretical framework, explaining both administrations’ focus on national interest, security imperatives, and regional power balancing. Findings indicate that sustainable U.S.–Pakistan relations require nuanced engagement combining strategic incentives, accountability, democratic support, and diversified partnerships. The study contributes to the understanding of bilateral dynamics, highlighting lessons for future U.S. foreign policy and Pakistan’s strategic planning in a complex, multipolar regional environment.

Keywords: U.S.–Pakistan Relations, Bush Administration, Trump Administration, Realism, Strategic Autonomy, Counterterrorism, Foreign Policy Analysis.