Although the other commentators are focusing on Human Rights issues, and seem to be viewing this as the emergence of an "Axis of Evil, I agree with the Author. This was another in a series of brilliant knife cuts on the US that China has made in their war against US dominance.

It's easy to see China as making deals with Dictators and that being a "bad" thing to do. But, the US did the same. Anyone remember the Shah of Iran?

The US talked a lot about human rights but mostly we did what was expedient for the US. The difference between the US and China, is that they don't talk about Democracy and Human Rights.

They also don't try to interfere with other countries. If you are an African, or South American, or Asian, or well just about anyone NOT PART OF WHITE EMPIRE you are pretty dammed tired of the US and Europe being the self righteous arbiters of what kind of government you get to have.

Not saying White Empire's influence has been all bad. But, the Global 80% didn't vote for the WHITE 20% to be in charge and pass moral judgment on them.

I think the authors points are well made and he is talking about a VERY important aspect of this war. If China gets enough of the 80% to align with its "New Order" the US can go down without a shot being fired.

This war will decide who's in charge when the world responds to Global Warming in a few years. Like Jane pointed out, that's probably why this is happening now, instead of five years from now.

The Climate Crisis is here and China cannot wait. As a human being who wants a livable planet to be here in 2100, I am not sure that's a bad thing.

Have you seen what's happening in the US?