Russia’s Energy Foray into Asia: Implications for U.S. Interests

Abstract

China and Russia are forging closer ties to build a “multipolar world” and challenge what

they lament as U.S. unilateralism. Energy ties are the backbone of this evolving economic

partnership: China has become Russia’s main source of funds and its single biggest energy

customer. Yet this essay argues that recent developments do not indicate the formation of a true strategic partnership that is based on a common set of values or a developed worldview that encompasses both powers. China is interested in purchasing Russian oil and gas, but still privileges economic relations with the U.S. Russia, meanwhile, feels uncomfortable about the growing power asymmetry with China, which highlights a shortcoming in the Kremlin’s claim of resurgent Russian greatness. Russia also displays a state-led mercantilist economic policy that seeks to augment its prowess at the expense of China. While a status-concerned Russia might in principle welcome a rm alliance meant to discom t the U.S., there is limited value in advancing a strategic alignment (let alone an alliance) for China. Beijing has the upper hand, and keeping its options open will continue to deliver maximum benefits.