The current state of US-Russia relations is a perfect example of the tension in world politics. In early March, Vice President Biden declared that the US is not interested in competition with Russia, but in helping a small democracy defend itself against the Russian takeover. This demonstrates the glaring inadequacies of the American foreign policy in the face of the growing climate crisis and the global need to secure Russia’s energy resources.

In a toe-to-toe conventional war, the U.S. military would win hands-down. But in the current age of globalization, wars are rarely fought at toe-to-toe. In addition to conventional forces, the U.S. military is vastly more advanced than Russia’s. Its forces are vastly more effective in air defense, submarines, and electronic warfare.

America’s role in the conflict has become more important than ever. Although sanctions have had limited effects, they have not prevented Russia from expanding its military presence in Ukraine. It has also led to the mobilization of U.S. troops to help train Ukrainian forces. Despite this, the U.S. is reluctant to escalate its military efforts in Ukraine and risk a proxy war with the Russians. During this time, Ukraine and its NATO allies have been building up their forces to counter the Russians’ military presence.

In the Middle East, Russia is signaling a long-term interest in expanding its anti-access area-denial capabilities. It has reportedly begun shipping advanced surface-to-air missile systems to Latakia, a region largely dominated by rebel groups. The move also contradicts Russian claims that they are limiting their military activities to Syrian rebels. The Russian air force has been operating in the region for over twenty years, and it is believed that it is capable of striking ground targets.