In the long term, which nation is identified as the leading competitor after China?

In the long term, which nation is identified as the leading competitor after China?

• A. Japan
• B. India
• C. Russia
• D. Germany

Answer: (C)

In long-term strategic competition among great powers, Russia is identified as the leading competitor after China. Its sustained military capabilities, including a modernizing nuclear deterrent and conventional forces, plus capabilities in cyber and space, keep Moscow as a persistent challenge to U.S. interests in Europe and beyond. Russia also wields regional influence, uses energy leverage, and employs disinformation and geopolitical actions to shape outcomes in areas that matter to U.S. security. By contrast, Japan is a close ally, India is rising as a partner with competitive elements but not a primary strategic competitor, and Germany is a key NATO partner—so none of them take the place of Russia in the long-term competitive landscape.

In long-term strategic competition among great powers, Russia is identified as the leading competitor after China. Its sustained military capabilities, including a modernizing nuclear deterrent and conventional forces, plus capabilities in cyber and space, keep Moscow as a persistent challenge to U.S. interests in Europe and beyond. Russia also wields regional influence, uses energy leverage, and employs disinformation and geopolitical actions to shape outcomes in areas that matter to U.S. security. By contrast, Japan is a close ally, India is rising as a partner with competitive elements but not a primary strategic competitor, and Germany is a key NATO partner—so none of them take the place of Russia in the long-term competitive landscape.