In a bold statement from Sydney, the President of Palau, a small yet strategically significant island nation in the Pacific, expressed optimism about the Trump Administration’s ongoing commitment to the region. With a population of just 17,000, Palau has remained largely shielded from US tariffs, a concern that looms over many neighboring countries.

President Surangel Whipps Jr. emphasized the importance of a strong United States for both Palau and the wider Pacific area, asserting that the nation’s security relies on America's engagement. During an address at the Lowy Institute, he noted the historical ties between Palau and the US, thanks to a compact of free association that grants the US military access to its territory while providing crucial economic aid.

Reflecting on recent cuts to USAID, Whipps stated, "I hope that it is a retreat, reassess, then come back stronger." He acknowledged the challenges posed by reduced funding yet maintained a hopeful outlook, drawing parallels with the Reagan Administration’s mantra of "peace through strength"—an ideology Trump has echoed.

Highlighting historical moments where Trump engaged with Pacific leaders, Whipps underscored the necessity of US focus on security matters in the region. He noted, "A strong United States that's able to continue to be strong is good for Palau and good for the planet," revealing his deep-seated belief in the interconnectedness of global security.

Despite his nation's situation, Whipps pointed out that Palau slipped under the tariff radar due to its limited exports, unlike other Pacific nations like the Marshall Islands and the Federated States of Micronesia.

As climate change poses an existential threat to Pacific nations—symbolized by rising sea levels and extreme weather patterns—Whipps lamented Trump's withdrawal from the Paris Agreement and its implications. He urged Pacific countries, including his own, to illustrate that climate change is a critical challenge, not merely a natural disaster.

Reinforcing Palau’s stance, he confirmed the nation’s backing of Australia in hosting the upcoming COP31 climate summit, while also critically noting Australia’s significant contribution to global emissions through fossil fuel exports. Whipps called upon Pacific nations to unite in raising awareness about the urgency of transitioning away from coal.