Story perspectives

U.S. Faces Choice: Embrace Multilateralism or Empower China

1/15/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Amitav Acharya, writing in Foreign Policy, argues for resilient multilateralism despite the Trump administration's withdrawal from international forums.
Reality shows a weakening global order, as China may fill the void left by the United States.
U.S. President Donald Trump has taken aggressive actions, such as claims over Greenland, risking allies and emboldening adversaries.
The United States must choose whether to re-engage with multilateralism or retreat, shaping a more China-dominated landscape.

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Story summary

Amitav Acharya, writing in Foreign Policy, argues for resilient multilateralism despite the Trump administration's withdrawal from international forums.
Reality shows a weakening global order, as China may fill the void left by the United States.
U.S. President Donald Trump has taken aggressive actions, such as claims over Greenland, risking allies and emboldening adversaries.
The United States must choose whether to re-engage with multilateralism or retreat, shaping a more China-dominated landscape.