US Must Reassert Global Leadership

Intent on the war in Iraq, the US has reduced its involvement elsewhere in Asia, South America and Africa. Meanwhile, China and Russia have stepped into the vacuum, warn former Clinton administration officials, Samuel Berger and Eric Schwartz, writing for the Boston Globe. China has provided billions for roads, ports and other projects in nations like Laos, Cambodia and the Philippines, they explain, "far outstripping US aid and engagement in the region, and rivaling World Bank and Asian Development Bank aid programs." Likewise, Russian President Vladimir Putin develops influence throughout Central Asia and Europe with energy deals. "These developments have serious and perhaps irreversible strategic consequences," Berger and Schwartz suggest. The US cannot afford to ignore rising anti-Americanism and the fierce jockeying for development and allies taking place around the globe. – YaleGlobal