China is the central enabler of a growing coalition of autocratic powers, including Russia, Iran, and North Korea, providing critical economic and military support that sustains their challenges to the U.S.-led order.
The risk of a Chinese military invasion of Taiwan is a near-term threat, with Xi Jinping reportedly directing the PLA to be ready by 2027, making deterrence an urgent priority for the U.S.
China's support for Russia's war in Ukraine is decisive, involving the provision of essential dual-use components for drones and economic lifelines, which in turn accelerates China's own military modernization.
government's current structure is inadequate for strategic competition, prompting recommendations to unify economic statecraft functions to more effectively counter China's influence.
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Concerns Raised
China is enabling an 'axis of autocracy' (Russia, Iran, North Korea), creating multiple, interconnected global threats.
A Chinese invasion of Taiwan is a near-term possibility (e.g., by 2027), and the U.S. may not be fully prepared.
China's support is prolonging the war in Ukraine while simultaneously accelerating its own military modernization.
The U.S. government's economic statecraft tools are not sufficiently integrated to effectively compete with China.
Opportunities Identified
Reorganizing U.S. government functions to create a more unified and powerful economic statecraft apparatus.
Strengthening alliances, particularly with the Philippines, to bolster regional deterrence against China.
Using integrated economic tools like export controls and sanctions to slow China's military modernization.