The turn of the 21st century brought the demise of the US-led unipolar world order. Russia and China have rapidly emerged as the new superpowers of the world. The two countries strive to establish an inclusive and egalitarian multipolar world order.
The “America First” Policy and the Decline of US Global Leadership
Mutual interests and strategic factors – including energy, geography, and history – formulate a stronger relationship between Europe and Russia than a mere rhetoric transatlantic relation could ever be. Although many Western pseudo-intellects have criticized the parade, they know that in the world of contested narratives, symbols hold immense significance. Undoubtedly, the Red Army’s tremendous sacrifice played a significant role in Europe’s emancipation. President Putin’s invitation to President Xi for this parade was a gesture to remind the European nations that Moscow was a significant regional player even before the establishment of NATO. Moreover, this move was also intended to reiterate the commitment of the two countries to defend their interests and sovereignty against any hegemonic designs by the Western powers in the future.
Russia-China Strategic Convergence and the Challenge to Western Dominance
The Moscow-Beijing alliance is based on mutual interests and economic as well as political gains. The proposed Power of Siberia 2 pipeline will serve the interests of both countries. It will provide low-priced gas to China and will also provide it an opportunity to avoid maritime chokepoints. On the other hand, Russia will get a buyer insusceptible to US sanctions and embargoes. The two countries are also investing in upgrading digital cables, ports, and railroads to avoid the Strait of Malacca. Many European companies are seeing these projects as an opportunity. They have started opening Yuan and Ruble accounts to gain financial benefit in the upcoming de-dollarized world order. China and Russia seek to develop an inclusive world order, attracting many developing nations.
On the other hand, the US-led unipolar world order was replete with crises and wars. The United States has sparked numerous conflicts in countries like Afghanistan, Iraq, Libya, and Ukraine. These countries are still suffering from the consequences of the wars imposed on them by Washington to gain its regional interests. The United States and many European countries rejected Moscow’s proposal of demilitarizing Ukraine to achieve their covert regional ambitions. The NATO-sponsored Ukrainian offensive against Russia is not only damaging Kyiv but is also proving detrimental for Europe as it requires Russian energy to fuel its industry. It is high time for the West to acknowledge that the only solution to the Russia-Ukraine conflict is to establish a buffer between Russia and NATO states, which ensures and strengthens the former’s sovereignty and security. This move is also rudimentary for ensuring the EU’s prosperity.
Europe at a Crossroads: Choosing Between Transatlantic Loyalty and Eurasian Realignment
The United States attempted to cripple the Russian economy through sanctions. However, this proved the contrary. Russia stands stronger than ever after these sanctions. Russia strengthened its economic relations with African and Asian nations. Moreover, BRICS played a significant role in expanding the Russian influence over the developing nations. Third-world countries see Russia as a more reliable ally than the United States. The Russian economy’s resilience against the US sanctions and embargoes provides many lessons to European nations. They should conserve their currency reserves, diversify supply chains, and establish domestic industry instead of outsourcing to other countries, which are vulnerable to blockade in emergency situations.
While the US-dominated world sought submission from developing nations, the new multipolar world order led by Russia and China under the banner of BRICS is based on inclusiveness and mutual respect. It provides an opportunity for third-world countries to pursue their independent foreign policies. Moreover, the two countries are also known for raising their voice against injustice and human rights around the world. 80 years ago, Russia and Europe fought side by side to fight against tyranny. However, Europe has turned into a tyrant by supporting state terrorism in Gaza and assisting the United States in committing violence in different countries around the world. Nonetheless, Moscow is still known as the flag bearer of enduring peace and justice in the world. European leaders need to acknowledge that standing beside Russia and following its footsteps are the only solutions to the survival of their nations.
Abbas Hashemite – is a political observer and research analyst for regional and global geopolitical issues. He is currently working as an independent researcher and journalist
