American Power Extra: The China-Russia Threat Everyone Gets Wrong

Everyone gets the China-Russia relationship wrong. One camp sees a unified anti-American alliance. The other sees a fragile marriage of convenience destined to collapse. A major two-year study from the Center for European Policy Analysis argues that both views miss what makes the partnership dangerous. In this episode of American Power, we break down what the relationship between Xi Jinping and Vladimir Putin actually looks like, why China holds most of the leverage, and why the biggest threat to the United States is not a combined Chinese-Russian military. It is the growing coordination of supply chains, financial networks, information warfare, sanctions evasion, and strategic pressure designed to stretch American attention across multiple regions at once. We examine how China went from supplying roughly 3% of Russia’s imports in 2000 to more than a third by 2023, why China now provides an estimated 70–90% of the critical components Russia needs to sustain its war machine, and why Beijing appears determined to keep Moscow alive without allowing Russia to become economically independent. We also explore the idea of China and Russia engaging in “parallel play” rather than operating as a true military alliance, the warning signs that would indicate that relationship is hardening, and the broader network connecting China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea. We’re always looking for new opportunities to partner with creators, companies, politicians, and organizations that share our mission. If you’re interested in partnering with us to help reshape the national conversation — get in touch! @wearefindout