School of War
Ep 187: Richard Fontaine on the “Reverse Kissinger”
Apr 1, 2025
In an engaging conversation, Richard Fontaine, CEO of CNAS and a seasoned foreign policy advisor, dives into the tricky dynamics between China and Russia. He discusses the historical context of their cooperation, the strategic implications for U.S. influence, and the challenges posed by nuclear deterrence. Fontaine emphasizes the need for a renewed diplomatic approach to navigate these geopolitical waters and critiques the liberal international order. Expect sharp insights into the evolving roles of global powers amidst rising tensions!
46:53
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Quick takeaways
- The potential for a unified anti-Western coalition of China, Russia, and Iran poses significant challenges to U.S. foreign policy.
- The deepening military and economic cooperation between China and Russia complicates U.S. defense strategy amid changing global dynamics.
Deep dives
Kissinger's Historical Impact
Fifty years ago, Henry Kissinger's secret mission to China initiated a significant diplomatic shift during the Cold War, establishing U.S.-China relations after years of separation. This realignment forced the Soviet Union to reconsider their strategies due to the new potential alliance. The concept of a 'reverse Kissinger' has emerged in contemporary discussions, suggesting that the U.S. might pursue a rapprochement with Russia to counterbalance China's growing influence. However, experts believe that this strategy is unlikely to succeed today, as there is no current rift between China and Russia to be exploited like during the Sino-Soviet split.
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