Back to today’s briefing

Story perspectives

Trump's 'Might Makes Right' Stance Threatens Rule of Law

1/12/2026

49 4 Full Breakdown

Summary

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration endorse the idea that 'might makes right' and reject international norms.
Influencers such as Matt Walsh dismiss international law as 'fake,' while critics warn this stance could undermine international and domestic legal frameworks.
The actions indicate a prioritization of power over established legal principles and raise concerns about the future of the rule of law.

History

Historical Context

The Nuremberg Trials, held from November 20, 1945, to October 1, 1946, marked a pivotal moment in international law, prosecuting 24 Nazi leaders for war crimes and establishing individual accountability. These trials emerged from the devastation of World War II, which resulted in 27 million deaths in the Soviet Union alone. Today, the revival of 'might makes right' rhetoric threatens the legal principles established at Nuremberg.

1 of 2

Story summary

U.S. President Donald Trump and his administration endorse the idea that 'might makes right' and reject international norms.
Influencers such as Matt Walsh dismiss international law as 'fake,' while critics warn this stance could undermine international and domestic legal frameworks.
The actions indicate a prioritization of power over established legal principles and raise concerns about the future of the rule of law.

1 / 2