Judging Freedom Gilbert Doctorow : How Trump’s War Affects Russia and China
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Mar 18, 2026 Gilbert Doctorow, independent analyst on European and Eurasian affairs, explains shifting Russia-China-North Korea military talks. He breaks down Moscow’s reaction to U.S. strikes, Beijing’s military shakeups and Taiwan strategy, and rising pressure on Putin alongside plans for a summer offensive. He also examines European debates on normalizing ties and the Kremlin’s distrust of U.S. reliability.
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Shockwaves From Trump’s Iran War Push Russia Toward New Alliances
- Russia sees Trump's Iran war as creating shockwaves that push Moscow toward closer ties with Beijing and Pyongyang.
- Gilbert Doctorow links a possible China-Russia-North Korea trilateral defense idea to Kremlin alarm over U.S. actions in Iran.
Why North Korea Matters To A Trilateral Military Pact
- North Korea offers capabilities China and Russia value: artillery and short/medium-range missiles plus a willingness to act.
- Doctorow emphasizes Pyongyang's readiness to operate and specific missile/artillery strengths relevant to regional defenses.
Xi Purge Signals Preference For Blockade Over Taiwan Invasion
- Russian delegation reported Xi purged senior generals because they pushed for an invasion of Taiwan.
- Doctorow says Xi prefers blockade and air/naval measures over a costly amphibious invasion, prompting a purge of 'too activist' generals.