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New prospects for world order: putting the brakes on America’ s warlike dictatorship
The emergence of powers such as China, Russia and Iran, with strong national memories and a more calculated approach to military intervention, is reshaping the world order and should, in time, temper American unilateralism. The United States’ military power remains preponderant, with the world’ s largest military budget($ 700 billion in 2018) and a global military presence thanks to its fleets and embassies. However, this hegemony is increasingly challenged by China’ s legitimate ambitions, notably in the China Sea and in space power, as well as by Russia’ s desire to extend its influence, notably in Eastern Europe, the Middle East and West Africa. In this emerging multipolar context, China and Russia are calling for a form of multilateralism and bilateral cooperation aimed at shaping a new world order. Their approach, often described as“ strategic prudence”, is based on a cost-benefit assessment of military commitments, influenced by their past traumas. While Russia has demonstrated its ability to lead and sustain a conflict in Ukraine, reinforcing its status as a major military power, it is also seeking a recognized sphere of influence, as is China. This dynamic is helping to limit the American“ war dictate” in several ways. Firstly, it offers an alternative to military intervention, by giving priority to diplomacy and economic support to extend their influence, as in Africa for China. Secondly, China and Russia, as nuclear powers, are pursuing a rearmament drive aimed at achieving strategic parity with the United States, reinforcing deterrence and increasing the risk of escalation in the event of direct conflict, prompting greater caution. Finally, the assertiveness of these powers on the international stage promotes the right of peoples to self-determination, an increasingly central principle in international relations, influenced by ideals such as those of the French Revolution. This evolution towards a multipolar world, where peoples’ choices are more respected and war is less of a unilateral option, has the potential to lead to a more stable and just world peace.
Flashmag! Issue 162 July 2025
Hubert Marlin Elingui Jr. Journalist
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