Beijing aims to capitalize on the U.S. withdrawal strategies

The second Trump administration has raised critical questions about its impact on global dynamics, particularly regarding China’s international strategy. U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio has described the current global order as “obsolete,” prompting President Trump to criticize international institutions as sources of new problems for the U.S. Early on in Trump’s term, China adopted a cautious approach, primarily engaging in limited tariff exchanges while benefiting from the U.S.’s distancing from its allies. However, this cautious phase has shifted, with China now pursuing a more assertive diplomatic strategy aimed at positioning itself as the leader in a new multipolar world.

At a recent Shanghai Cooperation Organization summit, Chinese President Xi Jinping showcased a united front with leaders from Russia, India, and others, signaling a departure from mere optics to a more substantive engagement. Analysts who initially dismissed such gatherings as performative underestimated the changing global landscape precipitated by Trump’s policies. As U.S. alliances weaken, countries like India and Russia are forging closer ties, creating a competitive environment ripe for influence. Beijing is stepping in to occupy the void left by the U.S., taking advantage of openings created by Trump’s “America first” policies.

China’s strategy extends beyond high-profile summits; it includes targeted outreach to developing nations while the U.S. imposes tariffs and cuts foreign aid. Xi has actively engaged with leaders from emerging economies, promoting initiatives that align with their interests and presenting China as a benefactor. This contrasts sharply with the Trump administration’s approach, which has alienated many international partners. As Xi emphasizes climate commitments and global cooperation in technology, he is effectively framing China as a responsible global leader, further inviting countries to consider alternatives to U.S. hegemony.

Moreover, Xi’s Global Governance Initiative aims to redefine international norms in favor of China. This initiative seeks to elevate China’s position within established institutions by promoting a vision of national sovereignty that is self-serving yet selectively applied. Such moves are designed to appeal to nations disillusioned with current global structures, particularly those influenced by Trump’s criticisms of organizations like the UN. While expressing newfound commitments to various global principles, Xi is establishing a narrative that frames China as a stabilizing force, capitalizing on the U.S.’s retreat from multilateralism.

Despite these advancements, China faces potential challenges in solidifying its vision of a China-centric world. Internal tensions, geographic disputes, and resistance from nations valuing autonomy could thwart Xi’s ambitions. Additionally, if the U.S. were to pivot back toward multilateral engagement under future leadership, China’s growing influence could face significant pushback. Ultimately, while China attempts to reshape the international order, the evolving dynamics remain uncertain, and its success is not guaranteed. Missteps or strong global pushback could disrupt China’s plans, offering opportunities for a potential reassertion of U.S. influence.