The author writes that Washington's economic measures against Russia and China could be the very thing to hasten the "anti-Western authoritarian partnership" between the two nations. Even as the two draw closer, the question of asymmetry remains in China's economic and demographic strength over Russia. Additionally, "Russia's paranoia about foreign powers approaching its borders will not vanish overnight.” The author suggests that the U.S. should highlight the risks of China's infrastructure projects to Russia and also update its trade policy "[t]o take the air out of Xi and Putin's globalization tale." Diplomacy, too, should be engaged. Rather than choosing between the two, the author advises the U.S. "to work selectively with both sides" and "reestablish itself as a natural wedge between Russia and China" as opposed to becoming the "bridge that unites them.”

Read the full article at The Washington Post.

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