Authors: Jeffrey Cimmino, Matthew Kroenig, Barry Pavel
Affiliation: Atlantic Council
Organization/Publisher: Atlantic Council
Date/Place: June 1, 2020/USA
Type of Literature: Report
Word Count: 12654
Keywords: Coronavirus, Geopolitics, US
Brief:
In this executive summary of the Atlantic Council, the think tank ruminates over the unique geopolitical challenges created by the Coronavirus for the US. Taking the US as its point of reference, Russia and China are examined with suspicion over their mask diplomacy. The virus seems to have exacerbated tensions between the US and its rivals. The weakness of the NATO troops in Europe is viewed as a threat because it might provide Russia a chance to strike. Similarly, the US’s weakened military in its overseas territories like Guam might present China a chance to inch forward as is already seen by its moves near Taiwan. The EU is not holding up well with Serbia overtly expressing great admiration for China, and Italians expressing their dissatisfaction at the dearth of help they received from their partners. The WHO is another sphere of conflict since it applauded Chinese efforts at containing the virus, making the US critical of its late declaration of the pandemic. The US is considering withholding funding from the WHO over these concerns. The report provides some policy recommendations to alleviate the crisis such as calling for a multilateral effort by the US and its allies to combat China’s influence. Protectionism is discouraged and the US’s use of stimulus packages is promoted. The need to strengthen alliances is emphasized. Lastly, it encourages the US and its allies to demonstrate military strength and squash any doubts about being ready to rebuke any offensive action.
By: Sahar Sadiq, CIGA Research Intern