WSJ Opinion: Free Expression America, Russia, China and the Struggle for Global Supremacy
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Nov 12, 2025 
Michael McFaul, former U.S. ambassador to Russia and Stanford professor, shares insights from his book, exploring the current geopolitical landscape. He compares today’s U.S.-China rivalry to the Cold War and reveals why he views Russia as a greater immediate threat. McFaul discusses China's economic ambitions and the significance of Taiwan to U.S. interests. He also addresses the complexities of the Ukraine conflict and the ideological battle between democracies and autocracies, emphasizing the need for renewed democratic institutions.
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Cold War Parallels And Key Differences
- The U.S.-China rivalry resembles the Cold War but with important differences like deep economic interdependence.
- McFaul predicts this competition will last decades and requires accurate diagnostics for policy.
China Leverages The Global Economy
- China seeks to expand power through the existing global economic order rather than exporting revolution.
- McFaul warns China builds parallel institutions (BRICS, AIIB, Belt and Road) that the West must engage with.
Stabilize Taiwan Through Deterrence And Clarity
- Expand deterrence and strengthen Taiwan's defenses to raise the cost of any Chinese invasion.
- Clarify we will not recognize Taiwanese independence to reduce the risk of war.
