Global Rivalries

While the US, China, and Russia grab the headlines at the United Nations, Southeast Asian countries are quietly shaping global diplomacy. Known as middle powers, these nations are finding ways to have a big impact despite not having superpower military strength.   Middle Powers Making Their Mark Southeast Asia uses its influence to mediate conflicts, promote diplomacy, and encourage international cooperation. Nations like the Philippines,...

China just pulled off a headline-grabbing Arctic voyage — and experts say it could shake up the world’s shipping map.   A Chinese container ship, the Istanbul Bridge, reached England on October 10, finishing a 20-day dash across the Arctic Ocean. The trip was almost 7,000 kilometers shorter than the usual Suez Canal route. Even after facing a rough storm near Norway, the Arctic shortcut still came out cheaper and faster.  ...

The United States has approved a massive $11 billion arms sale to Taiwan, one of the largest weapons packages Washington has ever authorized for the island. The decision, announced on December 17, is meant to strengthen Taiwan’s ability to defend itself as pressure from China continues to rise.   The sale includes advanced missile systems, drones, armored vehicles, and long-range artillery. Beijing has reacted sharply, warning that t...

With the United States and Donald Trump shifting focus to domestic issues, the future of Europe’s defense is becoming more uncertain. A major question looms: Can it protect itself if the US pulls back from its long-standing security commitments?   The US Steps Back For years, the US has been a key part of Europe’s defense through the North Atlantic Treaty Organization (NATO), a political and military alliance of countries from...

The rare earth minerals dispute between the United States and China has exploded into one of the most intense confrontations of their ongoing rivalry. These minerals, essential to modern technology and advanced weapons, have become tools of influence in a global power game.   What Rare Earths Really Are Despite the name, rare earths are not actually rare. But they are difficult to extract from the earth because they appear in tiny amounts...