US Secretary of State Antony Blinken has emphasized the need for the United States to take the lead in addressing the increasing threats posed by Russia and China. In a speech at John Hopkins University in Washington, Blinken stated that the world is entering a new diplomatic era and the decisions made now will have a lasting impact on the future.
Blinken highlighted that the “post-Cold War order” has come to an end, with decades of geopolitical stability being replaced by intensified competition with authoritarian powers. He identified Russia as the most immediate and acute threat to the international order due to its aggression in Ukraine. At the same time, he argued that China poses the biggest long-term challenge as it aims to reshape the international order through economic, diplomatic, military, and technological power.
The US Secretary of State claimed that Beijing and Moscow are collaborating to make the world safe for autocracy through their partnership without limits. He argued that the existing order, which these powers frame as a Western imposition, is rooted in universal values and international law. Furthermore, Blinken accused Russia and China of attempting to dictate their choices to others, a charge that is increasingly directed towards the United States.
Blinken emphasized the importance of alliances in maintaining US leadership. He acknowledged that the old order failed to deliver on its promises to many countries and citizens around the world, and the US will have to earn their trust. In this regard, he highlighted the significance of NATO and how it has become bigger, stronger, and more united than ever, despite previous doubts about its capabilities and relevance.
The Secretary of State underscored the interconnectedness of global security, pointing out that an attack on the international order anywhere will have repercussions everywhere. He expressed the US’s commitment to ensuring Ukraine’s success in defeating Russia and emerging from the conflict as a vibrant and prosperous democracy.
In conclusion, Blinken called for Washington to lead from a position of strength, supported by alliances and the trust of nations affected by the shortcomings of the old order. He stressed the need to address the threats posed by Russia and China, and to shape a new diplomatic order that upholds universal values and international law. The decisions made in this transitional period will shape the future for decades to come.
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