Convergence/Divergence

In the post WWII era the world was divided into two opposing blocs, the Western Alliance led by the U.S., and the Eastern/Asian Alliance led by the Soviet Union. The Cold War was characterized by numerous skirmishes on the bloc peripheries, such
as the Berlin Blockade/Airlift. The effective balance of military and nuclear power led the acceptance that armed conflict between the blocs was unthinkable. The
MAD doctrine (mutually assured destruction) kept an uneasy peace between the
principal antagonists. China was the main player outside the two blocs, with its
own expansionist goals and an increasing nuclear and missile capability. China's greatest concern was internal developement and industrialization. For that she needed
export markets, which exercised a restraining influence on her expansionist and
foreign adventures.
The present era confronts the two former great powers with new challenges from
rogue, radical countries that already have or will have nuclear weapons, awakening giants such as India and China, and rebellious client states on the periphery of
Russia.
In the Western hemisphere the U. S. sphere of influence is disintegrating. Nations such as Venezuela and Bolivia and others supporting them, are going their own way,
spurning U.S. policies. Their support in foreign affairs, and in the United Nations
can no longer be taken for granted.
In response to these new trends and power facts Russia and the U.S. are tentatively exploring a convergence of of interests. This could lead to new arms controls and reduction in nuclear armaments, more cooperation in international disputes such as with Iran,
the North Korean bellicosity and threats, and in Iraq, Pakistan, and Afghanistan.
President Obama's meeting this week with the Russian leaders has produced progress
on some of these issues and promises more to come. China appears ready to engage as well.
The President has some serious housekeeping to do in our own hemisphere, where divergence is the trend. He can't do it all alone. Now is the time for Hillary
to put on the steam!