The Return of Great Powers: Russia, China, and the Next World War

Jim Scuitto’s “The Return of Great Powers: Russia, China, and the Next World War” is an insightful gateway and timely examination of an uncertain global order and shifting geopolitical dynamics that have brought the world to the brink of a potential global conflict due to cascading effects of Russia Ukraine war.
James Ernest Sciutto is an accomplished American journalist, and a former government official, best known for his role as the chief national security correspondent for CNN. In this capacity, Sciutto provides expert analysis on a wide array of topics related to US national security, foreign policy, military affairs, terrorism, and intelligence matters. Before joining CNN, Sciutto served as chief of staff to the US Ambassador Gary Locke at the US Embassy in Beijing, where he worked on US China relations. Sciutto is also the author of several books, including Against Us: The New Face of America’s Enemies in the Muslim World, which explores the evolving dynamics of US relations with the Middle East.
Sciutto draws on his extensive experience reporting from the frontlines of international security, his role as a US diplomat, and his deep expertise in Asian affairs offers a compelling analysis of the current global order. With his unique perspective, the book explores the rising tensions between great powers specifically Russia, China, and the United States and warns of the real possibility of a new world war, the likes of which could eclipse the global destruction seen in the first half of the 20th century.
The author opens the book with a direct and stark assessment by stating that the world is witnessing the “return of great power competition.” He makes the case that the US and its allies are facing a “1939 moment.” Citing a 1939 moment, the author reflects on pre WW II period when, according to him, Western powers responded ineffectively to Nazi Germany’s expansion, resulting in dire consequences. Sciutto draws parallels to today’s geopolitical landscape, urging the West to take swift action to counteract China’s expanding ambitions in Taiwan and the South China Sea as well as against the threats posed by Russia’s aggressive actions in Ukraine to avoid repeating history. He points out that similar to the 1930s, the international community has failed to restrain authoritarian powers determined to alter the global order, emphasising the urgency of the situation. In addition to documenting the growing dangers, the book draws attention to the fault lines separating the West from these resurgent powers.
Sciutto evaluates the relationship between China and Russia, demonstrating his profound understanding of both nations. In particular, the author’s analysis of the “non–border” partnership between Chinese President Xi and Russian President Putin is deeply insightful. Sciutto contends that these two leaders share a common desire to dismantle the post–World War II international order, built by the US, which they view as unfairly tilted against them. Sciutto deftly outlines the shared grievances of both powers resistance to US hegemony, disdain for NATO and Western institutions, and a determination to expand their spheres of influence at the expense of the West.
Drawing on his years of experience as a foreign correspondent, particularly in China, Sciutto explores the strategic calculations that underpin the assertive postures of both the countries. He presents a scenario in which Russia keeps advancing its military aspirations in Europe, and China moves closer to annexing Taiwan by force. However, some might argue that this perspective resonates with a Western interpretation of geopolitical dynamics.
Moreover, Sciutto refers to Taiwan, Ukraine, and the Baltic Sea as flashpoints. For example, the Baltic Sea acts as a flashpoint between NATO and Russia, with both parties engaging in minor, potentially conflict–inducing measures to see how far they can push each other. His analysis is backed by interviews with key figures in intelligence and defence, adding depth and veracity to his assertions.
The implications of international conflict are further examined in the book. The author notes how authoritarian nations are becoming more cohesive and starting to resemble the Axis powers of the first half of the 20th century. He explains that the West has formed initial alliances with some Asian nations, particularly South Korea, India, and Japan, all of which are actively working to contain China, within this new axis. Citing Russian aggression, European nations like Finland have been compelled to reconsider their security plans and decide to join NATO.
Sciutto’s book helps readers to understand the challenges that the US and its allies face as they attempt to plan for a multi–regional conflict that could last for years. He highlights the issues with Western military preparedness, particularly in the US, confronting difficulties in preserving ammunition supply as well as demonstrating the limitations of conventional troops in fending off the Russian invasion at risk. Europe is also struggling as NATO nations remained unprepared for a protracted conflict with Russia.
In the final part, Sciutto discusses the future and asserts that, particularly in the event of Russia’s collapse in Crimea, the prospect of a nuclear exchange is unlikely. Furthermore, he underscores the risks posed by space, emerging arenas of conflict such as artificial intelligence (AI), unmanned vehicles, cyber–warfare, hypersonic weapons which have potential to alter the current geo–political landscape. Sciutto’s evaluation of President Donald Trump’s chances of winning a second term is crucial, and the author notes that Trump’s foreign policy shifts have significantly influenced the global environment. He quotes Trump’s former Chief of Staff, General John Kelly, who refers to a second Trump term as a “fundamental catastrophe,” pointing to the danger of an isolationist US policy that would abandon allies and embolden autocrats. Trump’s re–election confirms the relevance of author’s assessment in contemporary international landscape.
The book offers a critical analysis of conflicts between major powers, but it has certain shortcomings. The book has a focus on the three superpowers i.e. the US, China, and Russia but it excludes the role of regional powers. Sciutto primarily examines the policies and tactics of the major powers involved in Ukraine, Taiwan, and the Baltic. In a more comprehensive exploration of the interactions between great powers, these middle powers are crucial, even they might not be at the center of the flashpoints. However, their geographical locations make them relevant to geo–political confrontation between major powers. In Ukraine and Taiwan instance, such states become primary battlegrounds.
“The Return of Great Powers: Russia, China and the Next World War” provides a sketch of a contemporary multi–front conflict. Due to Sciutto’s knowledge, reporting, and analysis, this book serves as an essential tool for comprehending the growing hostilities between the US, Russia, and China as well as the actual threat of another world war in the 21st century. While the extensive use of primary sources offers a nuanced and personal perspective, the focus on particular flashpoints offers a distinctive perspective for examining great power dynamics. Sciutto’s analysis of the relationships between major powers is interesting; he skillfully uses areas of conflict to better understand the goals of each power and the reasons behind their adherence to distinct political systems.
In addition to outlining the geopolitical specifics and the necessity of global military readiness, this book is crucial in understanding a historical and evident shift in real time where Great Powers are reviving their ambitions to reclaim what they see to be their proper position in the world. For readers who want to understand the complexities of modern geopolitics and the threats of global conflict, this book offers valuable perspectives and cautions for the future.