North Korea President Obama has identified the regime as the most urgent challenge for the next administration because it is seeking to develop a miniaturised nuclear warhead for a ballistic missile capable of reaching the west coast of the USA.
Russia Most western nations say deterring Russia is a priority but Mr Trump is keen to build bridges. He identified Mr Tillerson’s warm relations with “many of the leaders we don’t get along with”, including President Putin, as the reason for choosing him. As a businessman he has opposed sanctions but as secretary of state he may need to modify that view or lose a crucial instrument of power.
Islamic State Mr Tillerson’s relations with Moscow could bring co-operation with Russia against the jihadists, a scenario that unnerves traditional American allies. Co-operation with Russia also means a de facto alliance with Syria’s President Assad, betraying rebels earlier backed by Washington.
Iran Mr Trump has said that he plans to rip up the Iran nuclear deal and reimpose sanctions. Mr Tillerson has lamented that sanctions meant that the US cannot exploit Iran’s economic potential as other countries can.
China Mr Trump has said that he will force China to submit to more favourable trade terms, indicating he is willing to use China’s claims on Taiwan as a bargaining chip. Beijing is alarmed that warmer relations between the US and Russia could leave it at a disadvantage but its influence over North Korea remains a strong card.
