Reimagining Bangladesh–U.S. Relations: A Strategic Imperative in the Trump Era

Reading Time: 3 minutes For many in Bangladesh, the United States has long been viewed with suspicion. Years of propaganda, conspiracy theories, and geopolitical misunderstandings have created an image of America as a power that undermines sovereignty, supports autocratic regimes, and pursues its own interests at the expense of smaller nations. Among these misconceptions, one of the most persistent is the myth that the U.S. sought to establish a military base on St. Martin’s Island. This false narrative has been perpetuated by various political factions, Islamists and leftists alike, and continues to cloud public perception. However, in 2025, with Donald Trump back in the White House, it is crucial for Bangladesh to move beyond outdated narratives and embrace a more pragmatic and strategic partnership with the United States. The reality tells a different story. When the COVID-19 pandemic threatened global health, the United States emerged as Bangladesh’s largest donor of