Deep Dish on Global Affairs How the World Is Reading US Power
Jan 22, 2026
Emma Ashford, a foreign policy analyst with expertise on U.S. defense, and Ryan Hass, a leading expert on U.S.-China relations, dive into the intricacies of U.S. global strategy under Trump. They discuss shifts in U.S. policy toward Taiwan and Latin America, highlighting the strategic implications of Chinese investments. Both guests analyze how the U.S. portrays its influence and the misalignment between America's resource-focused approach and China's tech ambitions. They also reflect on how allies should navigate this dynamic landscape.
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Unexpected U.S. China Posture
- The Trump administration surprised observers by prioritizing the Western Hemisphere and not escalating antagonism with China.
- Ryan Hass argues this reflects China’s effective leverage, forcing a period of strategic calm.
Latin America As A Strategic Priority
- The administration treats Latin America as a distinct strategic priority and pushes to limit Chinese presence there.
- Emma Ashford cites targeted moves in Panama, Venezuela, and Colombia to curb Chinese influence.
Resources Vs. Industrial Edge
- Ryan Hass frames Trump's push for resource control as a 20th-century playbook ill-suited for 21st-century tech competition.
- He argues China prioritizes industrial-edge sectors like AI, biotech, and clean energy over raw-material dominance.