The Bunker – News without the nonsense Is China pouncing as America withdraws?
Oct 14, 2025
In a compelling discussion, guest Jeffrey Prescott, a former U.S. ambassador to UN agencies and a scholar at the Carnegie Endowment, explores China’s assertive global rise as the U.S. steps back. He highlights how Trump's isolationist policies create a vacuum that China eagerly fills, rallying allies like Russia and India. Prescott warns of the risks of U.S. withdrawal and contrasts China’s long-term strategies with Trump’s short-term focus, emphasizing the importance of sustained U.S. engagement for global stability.
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China Filling A Leadership Vacuum
- China is actively moving to fill a leadership gap as the U.S. steps back from global institutions and influence.
- Jeffrey Prescott warns this shift lets Beijing frame a new international order favorable to its interests.
Trump Watching Leadership From The Sidelines
- Gavin Esler notes President Trump watched world leaders on TV and appeared sidelined during China's diplomatic events.
- Prescott describes the image of Xi, Putin and Modi clasping hands as symbolically powerful and alarming for U.S. influence.
From Patient Power To Proactive Diplomacy
- China has shifted from waiting to actively exploiting U.S. missteps to boost its global standing.
- Prescott highlights China's diplomatic and governance pushes at UN forums and AI and climate summits.