Region
East Asia
The US-South Korea Alliance and the China Factor
By Clint Work
In the current context of U.S.-China competition, Washington’s strategic preferences and Seoul’s search for greater autonomy are clashing.
Why Is America Dusting off Its Anti-Communist Playbook?
By Jin Kai
Why, at this particular moment, is Washington so persistently intent on fighting China, especially the so-called “evil” communist regime?
How China Lost Nigeria
By Adagbo Onoja
Even as China built up its influence, it remained deeply vulnerable to negative counter-narratives from the United States. That’s the paradox of hegemony.
North Korea Comes to Terms With Internal and External Challenges
By Ankit Panda
North Korea, like much of the world, is looking forward to 2021.
China’s Science Talent-Recruitment Program Draws Fresh Attention
By Abhijnan Rej
Beijing is trying to lure scientists as part of a covert technology-transfer plan. But why are so many of them falling for it?
Abe Sets Japan’s Record for Longest PM Term Even as Health Concerns Loom
By Associated Press
Even as Abe set a new mark for most consecutive days as Japan’s prime minister, a series of hospital visits have raised questions.
South Korea Reacts to News North Korea’s Kim Jong Un Is Delegating Power
By Tae-jun Kang
The report has led to a wave of rumors – Kim in a coma? – and accusations – Seoul trying to “distract” the public from its own missteps.
Mahan, Corbett, and China’s Maritime Grand Strategy
By Andrew Latham
The shift from Mahan to Corbett is reflective of a major shift in Chinese grand strategy – one that has implications for the U.S. and the Indo-Pacific at large.
Esper Heads to the Pacific: What’s on the Agenda?
By Ankit Panda
In Guam, Esper will meet with his Japanese counterpart.
South Korea Seeks to Boost China Ties, With an Eye Toward North Korea
By Gabriela Bernal
The Moon administration may be looking to restart momentum in China-South Korea relations, starting with a long-delayed summit.
The Critical 6 Months for US-Japan Defense Cooperation We Never Saw Coming
By James L. Schoff
The remainder of 2020 is shaping up to be an unexpectedly consequential year for U.S.-Japan defense cooperation.
Whispers of 076, China’s Drone Carrying Assault Carrier
By Rick Joe
What do we know so far about China’s next amphibious assault ship?