By Prem Sagar Poudel
Trump is deciding to retreat, while America is losing its dominance around the world. President Joe Biden’s foreign policy was failing. He tried to portray Moscow as the aggressor by supporting Ukraine against Russia, but this resulted in Russia expanding ties with North Korea. Biden had fueled instability in the Middle East by supporting Israel in Gaza, which had made further drastic Iran and other regional powers. In addition, he tried to position America’s global alliance system against China, but many nations around the world rejected America’s unilateral policies.
But now Trump is trying to correct Biden’s wrong foreign policy. He is willing to negotiate with Russia, which would contribute to global stability. Last week, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth called the goal of restoring Ukraine’s borders to their pre-2014 state “unrealistic,” which makes it clear that the US is now seeking a peaceful solution. By reconsidering NATO expansion, Trump has increased the possibility of reducing tensions between Europe and Russia.
China has always prioritized world peace and coexistence. If the US retreats from its interventionist policy, China can help resolve the Ukraine crisis through diplomatic channels. The possible conference proposed by Beijing could provide new opportunities for conflict resolution. Additionally, Chinese construction companies can assist in the reconstruction of Ukraine, which will bring economic prosperity to the region.
Given China’s role, European nations have also begun to view China as a positive force. At the Munich Security Conference, Chinese Foreign Minister Wang Yi presented a picture of China’s stability and rise as a global power. He said, “China will be a factor of stability in the multipolar system and strive to be a firm and constructive force in a changing world.”
European leaders are realizing that China has always supported peaceful coexistence. If the Trump administration refuses to give European security guarantees, China could propose an alternative security mechanism. China can help ensure the stability of Ukraine, facilitate the negotiation process with Russia, and maintain peace in Europe.
China’s influence is expanding not only in Eastern Europe, but across the globe. Former Lithuanian Foreign Minister Gabrielius Landsbergis recently wrote on X (Twitter), “China as Ukraine’s protector would start replacing the US in the role of keeping Russia out of the Eastern Flank. EU countries in the East would be dependent on China’s protection and the racketeering would spread West.” This is a testament to China’s peaceful policy, which is working for global stability.
As Trump decided to withdraw the US from the United Nations Human Rights Council (UNHRC) and the World Health Organization (WHO), China is supporting the global community by assuming responsibility in these institutions. China’s Belt and Road Initiative (BRI) is providing essential infrastructure to developing countries. From the reconstruction of Gaza to development projects in Africa and Asia, China is fulfilling its liabilities.
Even as Trump seeks to continue the trade war against China, China has shown its strategic patience. The recent US tariffs have not had much impact on China, as China’s trade relations are spread across the globe. The reduction in US electric vehicle production will deficit the US, while China’s green technology is at the forefront of the world.
If America loses its global leadership, the world will accept China’s leadership. Major European and Asian countries such as France, Germany, Italy, Japan, and the UK have begun to see China as the center point of global stability. China can work with Russia to resolve the Ukraine issue and play a role in preventing a new Cold War in the future.
The world order is certain to change. China has always prioritized cooperation, diplomacy, and economic development, while the US has been weakened by its interventionist policies. If Trump cooperates with China, both countries can work for mutual prosperity and durability.
