America’s Policy of Attrition, Arms Race, and Intimidation in Dealing with China.

By Elijah J. Magnier: 

In the realm of global power dynamics, the United States finds itself in a delicate position with respect to China. Although the US wields considerable influence and military power, it lacks the capacity to declare and win an all-out war against China. Indeed, China is a nation with immense financial, commercial and industrial capabilities, a formidable military and nuclear arsenal, and strategic alliances with Russia and Asian countries that are not easily severed. In a divided international landscape, with some supporting and others vehemently opposing the West’s confrontation with Russia, most Western nations are reluctant to be drawn into a future conflict with China, a sentiment openly expressed by French President Emmanuel Macron. Nevertheless, the US continues to use a combination of sabre-rattling and sustained diplomatic efforts to maintain channels of communication with Beijing. So what is America’s practical and realistic warmongering strategy when it comes to China? 

The United States is the world’s most powerful single nation, backed by military might that includes more than 750 bases worldwide and more than 150 nuclear weapons deployed in Europe. President Joe Biden and his administration have successfully revitalised the European army under their control through the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation (NATO), effectively aligning the interests of American and European forces on the continent. The war in Ukraine has shown that the Russian military, despite its updated technological advances and combat capabilities, cannot match the US-European NATO army in Europe without nuclear weapons. Washington’s skilful manoeuvring has revived NATO from what French President Macron once described as “brain death” four years ago and rallied most European countries behind its cause.

But the military alliance has expanded to 31 members, with Sweden soon to join 32. This could happen, in part, thanks to Turkey’s provision of advanced F-16 aircraft and spare parts for its air fleet, which the US plans to supply to Ankara. This deal is conditional on President Biden fulfilling his promise to meet Turkey’s demands for the modernisation of its air force in return for Turkish support for NATO membership. 

As for Ukraine’s possible accession to NATO, such a move has more symbolic significance than real benefit for the United States. In fact, it is in America’s interest for Ukraine to remain endlessly embroiled in conflict or instability, effectively draining Russia and Europe while weakening their economies. This outcome ensures that the United States maintains its position as the dominant power on both continents, with European nations viewing it as an indispensable partner, albeit a necessary evil.