Why Doesn't the US Just "滅了" Russia to Help Ukraine? A Misunderstanding of American Politics

#USPolitics#AmericanForeignPolicy#UkraineCrisis#ChecksAndBalances#SinoUSRelations

TL;DR

The widespread perception in China, often fostered by educational materials, that the US president can unilaterally initiate a war, as if a simple command can lead to a swift resolution like "滅了 (to destroy/annihilate)" Russia, is fundamentally flawed. This article clarifies the complex workings of the US federal system, highlighting the crucial role of checks and balances, state governments, and the historical evolution of power dynamics, to illustrate why a decisive military intervention isn't a straightforward option.

The question posed by the Chinese title, "Why doesn't the US, so much stronger than Russia, quickly destroy Russia to help Ukraine?", reflects a common misunderstanding of American political realities prevalent among Chinese students. The implication is that the US president, as commander-in-chief, can simply order a military campaign. This view, however, fails to account for the intricate checks and balances built into the American system, a system vastly different from the centralized structure often presented in Chinese political discourse.

The US federal system, unlike a unitary state model, evolved from a relatively decentralized structure. The Continental Congress, the precursor to the current federal government, was initially a coordinating body, not a powerful entity capable of unilateral action. It lacked the power to tax or command a military. In contrast, the state legislatures held considerable authority. This historical foundation established a system where power is distributed between the federal government and the individual states, with significant checks and balances at play.

Crucially, the US president's power, while substantial as commander-in-chief, is not absolute. Decisions regarding military intervention require significant political consensus. The legislative branch, specifically Congress, holds the power of the purse strings and must authorize military spending and declarations of war. Furthermore, the judicial branch can scrutinize and potentially restrain executive actions.

This intricate web of checks and balances reflects a deep-seated American ethos of limiting government power and safeguarding individual liberties. Military action, even one seemingly justified by geopolitical concerns, requires a complex interplay of political will, legislative approval, and public support, factors often absent in a simplified narrative. The current political climate within the US, with diverse viewpoints and political factions, further complicates the decision-making process.

The notion that a single individual, the president, can unilaterally "滅了" Russia ignores the fundamental principles of American democracy. The US approach to foreign policy is characterized by a cautious balancing act, considering a multitude of factors beyond mere military strength, including international alliances, economic ramifications, and potential long-term consequences. The current situation in Ukraine underscores the complexity of international relations and the need for a nuanced understanding of the political systems involved.

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