How small powers can survive the era of transactional diplomacy
In early 2025, the international landscape is marked by unpredictability, with the traditional rules-based order giving way to transactional diplomacy and strategic improvisation. Conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza highlight this shift, as leaders prioritize short-term domestic political considerations over established strategic doctrines, making it difficult to forecast international behavior.
This new normal is exemplified by the White House's conditional alliances and Russia's deepening relationship with North Korea, based on mutual short-term benefits rather than ideological alignment. China's increased defense budget and the expansion of its navy further reflect this strategic calculus in an unpredictable environment, as the country aims to project its power beyond its immediate region.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
In early 2025, the international landscape is marked by unpredictability, with the traditional rules-based order giving way to transactional diplomacy and strategic improvisation. Conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza highlight this shift, as leaders prioritize short-term domestic political considerations over established strategic doctrines, making it difficult to forecast international behavior.
This new normal is exemplified by the White House's conditional alliances and Russia's deepening relationship with North Korea, based on mutual short-term benefits rather than ideological alignment. China's increased defense budget and the expansion of its navy further reflect this strategic calculus in an unpredictable environment, as the country aims to project its power beyond its immediate region.
via SCMP Full Text Feed
