All Things Policy Drum-Sticks and Carrots
Jan 19, 2026
Vanshika Saraf, a research analyst specializing in East Asian strategic dynamics, joins the discussion to explore the shifting geopolitical landscape in the region. She breaks down Japan and South Korea's complex relationships with China and each other. Key topics include Japan's evolving military stance and the implications of China's aggressive tactics towards Taiwan. The discussion also highlights economic coercion against Japan and the impact of domestic politics on regional strategies.
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East Asia Shapes India's Global Role
- East Asia's shifting dynamics will shape India's long-term global identity and policy choices.
- India must decide whether to be a rules-shaper or a crisis-driven hedger in the region.
Japan Reframes Taiwan As Its Security
- Japan's 'Taiwan contingency is a Japan contingency' framing signals legal and strategic shifts.
- The phrase enables Japan's reinterpretation of collective self-defense and closer support for the US in a Taiwan crisis.
China Normalizes Rapid Military Drills
- China's large-scale drills since 2022 have become the new normal and now use quicker, zero-warning mobilizations.
- Lowered triggers and more aggressive sorties raise miscalculation risks with Japan and US forces.