China appears to be strategically positioning itself to benefit from international conflicts without direct involvement. The article contrasts Russian President Putin's weaker position on his Beijing visit with past diplomatic outcomes for the US.

Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Beijing in a much weaker position than he did more than four years ago, when he launched his invasion of Ukraine shortly after his last visit. US President Donald Trump left Beijing after much fanfare. However, he was criticised back at home for failing to deliver on any key aspect of American interests, such as committing China to pressuring Iran to end the war on US terms. His popular support is at a historic low. Putin, Trump and Chinese President.....