Russia, China may be more aggressive if they feel Trump is on 'his way out': Brookings
Russia and China may be more aggressive if they feel that U.S. President Donald Trump is on "his way out" after the Democratic Party flipped the midterms.
TL;DR
- Russia and China may increase aggression if they believe President Trump is politically weakened and leaving office.
- U.S. military capacity, particularly missile interceptors depleted by the Iran conflict, could be a vulnerability.
- A reduced U.S. naval presence in Asia due to Middle East deployments might empower China.
- Trump's primary interest in economic deals with China could lead to increased Chinese assertiveness.
- The U.S. is obligated to provide Taiwan with defense capabilities, despite China's claims.
- There are ongoing discussions about a potential trilateral summit between Trump, Xi Jinping, and Vladimir Putin.