In recent years, global power dynamics have shifted significantly, marking a decline in Washington’s uncontested dominance amid the rise of rival powers. Historically, Russia has been the United States’ principal challenger, but the Chinese Communist Party (CCP) now poses a more profound and multifaceted challenge to U.S. political and economic supremacy. Unlike a speculative threat, China’s ambitions are substantiated by concrete initiatives and actions, such as the Belt and Road Initiative, which is perceived as a strategy for global economic control. Additionally, China’s assertive activities in the South China Sea, including maneuvers around Taiwan, and its influential role within the BRICS bloc underscore its aspirations to establish a new global order independent of Western frameworks.

In response, Washington has adopted countermeasures, including a trade and technological war targeting Chinese firms like Huawei and threats of military intervention to safeguard its interests, particularly in the Taiwan Strait. Furthermore, NATO’s evolving role reflects the strategic recalibration necessitated by these developments. Against this backdrop, this study investigates whether China constitutes a legitimate contender for global leadership against the United States. It also examines the key dimensions of this rivalry, emphasizing the broader political and economic transformations shaping the global order.

The study highlights the implications for third-world countries by analyzing these shifts, underscoring their precarious position amid great power competition. It calls for proactive engagement to leverage these dynamics as an opportunity for growth and to mitigate vulnerabilities in the evolving international landscape.