Kathmandu. The world is on the brink of a new geopolitical storm. Donald Trump started imposing heavy taxes on many countries while working on the ‘America First’ policy. This includes India and China. Russia was already a banned country. Now these three countries are increasing friendship with each other. This battle seems to be less about the tariffs and more about Trump against Vladimir Putin, Modi, Xi Jinping. After this, the White House may be a little softer, or it may be more aggressive like an injured king.
The United States has long been the world’s most powerful country. Its military might and foreign policy have made it a master in a way. However, the throne seems to be shaking lately. Most countries are angry with Trump’s policies. Europe was america’s best ally. It is also angry with Trump’s threat.
It was fine, but increasing heavy tariffs on countries backfired on Trump. He thought that through this he would be able to secure a contract of his choice. However, the tables turned upside down. Many countries can bypass the US and create their own markets and military power. Or at least they can do so much that America is under the mountains.
A similar phase occurred during World War II. At that time, the United States and the Soviet Union (now Russia) were two superpowers. After the war ended, almost all countries turned to either the United States or Russia. On the one hand, there was THE US-led NATO and on the other was russia’s Warsaw Agreement.
On the other hand, there were many countries, including India, which were different from any camp. These countries laid the foundation of the Non-Aligned Movement under the banner of neutrality. In a way, it was a third party, which was trying to protect itself from the pressure of the superpower. In the meantime, groups with common interests also appeared in the alliances. Which seemed to be together because of the thinking of one continent, one self-interest or one religion.
The China-Russia alliance has been formed against the US and its Western allies. India is also seen as an ally in this regard. He was already close to Russia but joining hands with Beijing was a big decision. Border tensions between China and India deepened during the Covid period. Then there was almost silence between the two. Now the leaders of both countries are meeting in Tianjin city of China. This is likely to reduce both dependence on the US market. Trump himself is likely to change his decision after seeing himself separated.
If this triangle really becomes a team, there will be many big changes. More than half of the world’s population lives in these three countries. All three countries have markets, nuclear power and economies. In such a situation, America’s status as a superpower can be shaken. But it’s not that easy.
India and China have their own border dispute. Here Russia is also sometimes seen close to america. On the whole, everyone has their own self-interest and alienation. Which can change over time.
However, history says that alliances will not remain the same for as long as they were in the beginning. After World War II, the United States and Russia were allies. However, as soon as the war ended, the two became enemies of each other. The reason for this was power politics. Every big country wants to maintain its dominance. Similarly, good relations between Russia and China were sometimes strained.
This country has not only the power but also the experience of operating the global system. For example, from the United Nations to the World Bank, it takes the lead in many decisions. There is a reason for this. This has been their biggest source of funding. America’s power may seem one-sided. However, many times due to that power, the balance in the world is also maintained. It is such that if the head of the family is strict then the rest of the family members move in a straight line and the relationships remain intact.
Despite this, it is also true that Trump currently seems to be making hasty decisions. He has also imposed heavy tariffs in India. He is also interfering in the affairs of India and Pakistan. Which Delhi does not accept at all. In such a situation, looking at India with China and Russia will be a little uncomfortable for Trump. If this triangle continues, the world’s power center will shift to Asia. After that, developing countries are likely to get a big voice. Until now, the West had this right.
If America’s dominance decreases a little, who will replace it? In terms of economic power, China can compete with the US, but many countries are angry with it. Beijing has a history of interfering in the internal affairs of countries by giving loans. There have also been reports of human rights violations. Very few countries will accept a country already tainted with a black image as a leader.
Now comes Russia. It is a great military power but its reach is limited. Its market and economy are not very strong either. So it cannot be the only superpower. – with agency support
