Nepal, Jan. 26 -- 'Shock and awe' perhaps best describe the global reaction to President Donald J. Trump assuming office for a non-consecutive second term last week. Leaders, supporters, investors and celebrities from both the United States and abroad have been flocking to the Mar-a-Lago for weeks to pay homage to the new American leader, evoking imagery of an emperor's court.

Trump's return promises a new era of social, economic and geopolitical disruption-one poised to reshape not only the US but also the liberal international order, already under siege from populist leaders worldwide. Not only Trump's opponents at home and abroad but even Washington's closest allies are watching with bated breath as he signals an appetite for economic...