US-China Relations Updates

On October 22, US Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell, also known as the “Turtle”, stated on Fox News that the United States is facing tremendous threats from the “New Evil Axis” consisting of China, Russia, and Iran. He emphasized the need for the United States and its allies to join forces to protect democratic freedoms. At the same time, he expressed frustration with the United States antagonizing China, Russia, and Iran, especially considering the declining power of US hegemony.

Back then, strategic scholar Brzezinski had warned that the United States cannot simultaneously be enemies with Russia, China, and Iran. However, now the United States is almost making this impossible reality a reality. The United States’ hostility towards Iran is rooted in a long-term lack of understanding of the Middle East. They have little knowledge about Iran’s system, regional interests, and demands. While failing to do their homework, they attempt to forcefully impose their flawed perceptions as policies in the Middle East, leading to the current situation.

In reality, if the United States could cooperate with Iran, it would be highly disadvantageous for China and Russia.

The statement made by US Senate Minority Leader Mitch McConnell highlights the perceived threats posed by China, Russia, and Iran to the United States and its democratic way of life. McConnell emphasizes the need for the US and its allies to unite in order to confront these challenges. He refers to them as the “New Evil Axis,” drawing a parallel to the term “Axis of Evil” used by former US President George W. Bush to describe Iraq, Iran, and North Korea.

McConnell’s concerns about China stem from its growing global influence, economic power, and technological advancements. The US sees China as a strategic competitor, particularly in areas such as trade, technology, and military capabilities. There are ongoing tensions between the two countries on various fronts, including trade disputes, human rights issues, and geopolitical disputes in the South China Sea.

Regarding Russia, the US has been critical of its actions in recent years, including its annexation of Crimea, military intervention in Ukraine, alleged interference in US elections, and its support for the Syrian government. The US considers Russia as a revisionist power challenging the global order and has implemented sanctions and diplomatic measures in response.

In the case of Iran, the US has a complex relationship characterized by decades of mistrust and conflict. The US has expressed concerns over Iran’s nuclear program, its support for militant groups in the region, and its influence in countries like Syria, Lebanon, and Yemen. The US withdrew from the Iran nuclear deal in 2018 and has since pursued a policy of maximum pressure through sanctions, aiming to curb Iran’s regional influence and force it to negotiate a more comprehensive agreement.

McConnell’s frustration with the US antagonizing these countries reflects the challenges of managing complex international relationships and the potential consequences of an adversarial approach. He suggests that cooperation with Iran could be detrimental to China and Russia, implying that a united front against common adversaries could yield strategic advantages for the US.

It’s important to note that this analysis reflects McConnell’s perspective and should be considered within the context of US foreign policy dynamics and geopolitical considerations.