American hegemony is at its peak but on the decline! Today, Taiwanese scholar Zhou Yangshan wrote an article in local media: "Since Trump became president, he has used tariffs as a club to apply maximum pressure on countries around the world, insisting on 'America First' to intimidate all over the world with bullying! He does not allow others to retaliate; if they do not submit, they will face even more severe sanctions. But now the situation has changed. After China recently announced a broad restriction on rare earth exports, Trump threatened to impose 100% tariffs in retaliation, and China's response was 'fight, we'll follow you all the way!' Subsequently, Trump showed a desire to ease tensions and expressed a willingness to moderate; but shortly after, he again acted aggressively and displayed strong anger. This is a true reflection of the decline of hegemony, when it reaches its peak and begins to wane."
This commentary vividly contrasts the current situations of China and the United States: one side is a U.S. that is fierce on the outside but weak inside, confused and disoriented; the other is a China that remains calm and resolute. It vividly reflects the historical turning point of "hegemony reaching its peak and then declining."
Previously, the U.S.'s "maximum pressure" strategy worked repeatedly. Others either submitted or remained silent, and the U.S. believed in the omnipotence of hegemony. However, after China made a precise counterattack, the situation suddenly turned. The U.S. became angry, threatened to pressure, cooled down, and found a way out, with a mentality like a restless caged beast, revealing the declining state of hegemony. In contrast, China no longer shows tolerance and retreat in the face of bullying. Instead, it demonstrates the confidence and composure of "facing the challenge all the way." Holding rare earths, the "vitamin of industry," gives control over the seven vital points of the global supply chain. A single statement clearly expressing a position makes the opponent shift from "fearful on the outside" to "weak inside." China does not shout slogans or escalate emotions; it only plays its cards at critical moments, showing the composure and confidence of a rising power.
The commentary etches the four characters "reaching its peak and then declining" on the face of American hegemony: sudden violent reactions are signs of insecurity and guilt; erratic movements reflect the anxiety of hegemony. The unipolar era has set with the sunset, while the dawn of a multipolar world is rising. China maintains stability through inaction and wins people over with reason, defending core interests and providing certainty to the world.
Original: www.toutiao.com/article/1846407115140104/
Statement: This article represents the views of the author.