The Classicist: “Radicals On Campus”

Air power is a relatively new feature of warfare. Conversely, military coercion, actions to force an adversary to change its behavior short of full-scale war, is as old as history itself. Coercion is a tool of statecraft that offers the benefits of winning a war without incurring the costs. The rise of air power has arguably increased the attractiveness of coercive statecraft, especially for wealthy democratic states that are concerned about casualties. Coercive bombing is viewed as a low cost, low commitment tool for achieving foreign policy objectives.

Despite China's growing economic influence in Latin America, Beijing faces challenges it cannot easily control, from the activities of Chinese nationals abroad to costly missteps by its companies. These vulnerabilities reveal an overlooked opportunity for the United States to strengthen its position in the region through diplomacy, security cooperation, and deeper knowledge of China.

Despite nearly $80 billion in trade in 2025, US engagement with Africa does not always reflect the economic and strategic priorities of individual nations.