Navigating Hegemony: Avoiding Conflict through Strategic Competition

The dynamics of global power competition reveal the complexities of preventing a nation from becoming a regional hegemon, specifically in East Asia. Building economic ties, such as nuclear power agreements and trade relations, can serve as strategic tools against rising powers. However, the potential for conflict remains high, particularly in the South China Sea, which poses greater immediate risks than Taiwan. While attempts to inhibit hegemonic ambitions without direct military intervention, such as defending Taiwan, are proposed, vigilance is necessary as tensions can escalate rapidly in contested regions.