By Shravan Krishnan // Between aspiring global powers with nuclear capabilities, avowed non-nuclear states, staunch U.S. allies, and decidedly neutral states, various factors drive the different perspectives of Indo-Pacific powers on AUKUS as China looms large in the background.
By Shravan Krishnan // Even the presence of nuclear-powered submarines presents a variety of challenges for Australia. Would these submarines be permitted to dock in New Zealand, a sworn opponent of nuclear proliferation with whom Australia maintains significant interoperability and operational overlap? Would these submarines be more obvious to Chinese passive sonar in the South China Sea than their diesel power counterparts?
By Connor Woodin // China’s military build-up, aggressive attitude in international waters, contested territory claims and new trade deals have weakened the United States' position in the Pacific. Although the United States is down, it is not out yet. The United States is still the world's largest economy and one of, if not the most, influential nations in the world. These determinants mean that the United States can recover its position if it plays its cards right.
By Daniel Durgavich // American leadership seems split on how it means to proceed in Europe. While commitment to Europe and NATO is certain, how that will manifest itself is not yet settled. While President Biden seems intent on restoring the relationship as it was, Secretary of Defense Austin issues more measured statements, indicating a desire to let Europe take the lead.
Daniel Durgavich // If the US is to continue to be able to secure its interests, it must be willing to draw hard lines with regards to its partners. It cannot constantly be trying to placate partners who are stridently against those interests, no matter the history.
Realist Review 