China Seeks Regional Influence While Avoiding Costly Military Commitments
Isaac Kardon argues that China seeks greater control over contested territory and regional security while avoiding the costs of a broad overseas military presence or intervention in conflicts that do not directly threaten its sovereignty. In a discussion with Elizabeth Economy, he contends that Beijing’s pressure on its neighbors can strengthen the US alliances it wants to weaken, even as uncertainty about Washington’s commitments complicates regional efforts to counter China.
Hoover Institution·Nov 5, 2026·20 min read