Core Viewpoint - The warming relations between China, North Korea, India, and Russia are perceived as a potential threat, forming an "anti-Western alliance" that could reshape the global order [1][4][8]. Group 1: Concerns Over Alliances - Wolfgang Ischinger, a security expert, expressed worries about the recent gathering of world leaders in China, indicating that the world is moving in a concerning direction [2][3]. - Ischinger highlighted the shift in focus from the rise of authoritarian regimes to the collaboration of totalitarian leaders, suggesting a potential for a new global order based on military strength and repressive governance [4][6]. - The BRICS summit, which included China, India, and Russia, showcased a collective criticism of U.S. tariffs and a desire to deepen trade ties, further indicating a shift in global alliances [7]. Group 2: Strategic Shifts - Seong-Hyon Lee noted that the strengthening bonds among China, North Korea, and Russia represent a significant strategic shift, with China actively pursuing a new world order and moving away from reconciliation with the West [8][12]. - Lee characterized the leaders of China, Russia, and North Korea as the "hard-power nucleus" of this new strategic posture, emphasizing the need for Washington to accurately assess this evolving challenge [8][12]. - Evgeny Roshchin expressed skepticism about the potential for a cohesive military alliance among these nations, suggesting that their collaboration is more tactical than unified [9][10]. Group 3: Long-term Strategies - Roshchin acknowledged that while the alliance may not be cohesive, China views these relationships as part of a long-term strategy to establish a new "pole" in global governance [11]. - The emerging influence of this new pole could lead to increased support for Chinese positions within international platforms like the United Nations [12].