Queens Death Deepens UKs Downward Spiral in Global Arena US Observers Say
Queen Elizabeths death marks another step in what US observers call Britains downward spiral on the world stage. The monarch who represented stability is gone and so is whatever she symbolized.
Elizabeth reigned for 70 years through massive changes in British power and influence. She started as queen of an empire and ended as figurehead of a diminished island nation.
Politico analyzed how American foreign policy experts view post-Elizabeth Britain.
Brexit already damaged UK standing. The chaotic Boris Johnson years made it worse. Now the symbolic head who provided continuity is gone.
Global influence depends on perception as much as reality. The UK keeps taking hits on both fronts.
King Charles doesnt command the same respect internationally. He carries baggage Elizabeth avoided. The mystique built over seven decades transfers imperfectly to a successor.
American observers interviewed for various outlets expressed concern about the special relationship. Not that it ends but that it matters less when one partner keeps diminishing.
The mourning period was genuine. Elizabeth was beloved. But grief eventually ends and what remains is a Britain still struggling to define its post-imperial role.
Analysis September 2022
