As the world moved from an American unipolar moment after the end of the Cold war, the idea of a multipolar world emerged as a popular theme. But a truly multipolar world never materialized. The US remains the most consequential power with China in a strong second place. Together they dwarf other emerging actors. The contours of the world order will certainly be more chaotic. Bipolarity can be defined as a system of world order in which the majority of global economic, military, and cultural influence is held between two states.

The classical case of a bipolar world is that of the Cold war era when the US and Soviet Union dominated in the second half of the 20th Century. Ironically Russia hop ed to usher in an age of multipolarity when it invaded Ukraine in an effort to overturn the Kyiv government, But Moscow’s failure to achieve a quick and decisive victory instead diminished Russia’s prestige and stature in world affairs. Within the present bifurcated world order, the power dominance is still heavily tilted in Washington’s favour despite all the talk about the US’s declining influence. However, US foreign policy is headed into a period of uncertainty. Bipolarity is no longer returning. It is here to stay for the foreseeable future. Competition among big powers in the economic area will be far greater than the more dangerous military realm. In today’s world, “Money Speaks, Money Counts.”

Advertisement

The US and Russia maintain one of the most important, critical and strategic foreign relations in the world. They have shared interests in nuclear safety and security, non- proliferation, counter-terrorism and space exploration. The history of relations between the US and Russia has been topsy-turvy. During Joe Biden’s presidency, relations reached the lowest point following Russia’s invasion of Ukraine in 2022. During the second presidency of Donald Trump, the US has moved to normalize relations with Russia. There were striking developments during Mr Trump’s recent meeting with French President Emmanuel Macron.

Advertisement

Mr Trump refused to call Russian leader Vladimir Putin a dictator. However, days earlier, he had labeled Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskky in those terms. When asked whether he considered Mr Putin a dictator, Mr Trump responded “I do not use these words lightly. We will see how it all works out.” In fact, in a stark shift........

© The Statesman