Commentary
The debate in Washington often treats allied policy toward China as a loyalty test—are you “with us” or “soft”? That’s the wrong frame.
APEC leaders pose for a group photo before a dinner honoring U.S. President Donald Trump (4th-L) during APEC meetings at the Hilton Gyeongju in Gyeongju, South Korea, on Oct. 29, 2025. The Trump administration has secured trade deals with several countries, including the United Kingdom, the European Union, Japan, and South Korea. Andrew Harnik/Getty Images
Charles Davis
Author
Charles Davis is a military veteran and lecturer with an intelligence background. His military awards include: two Bronze Star Service Medals, Defense Meritorious Service Medal, two Meritorious Service Medals, NATO Service Medal, Iraq Campaign Medal, Afghanistan Campaign Medal, Saudi Arabia Liberation Medal, and Kuwait Liberation Medal.
