**Title: Palki Sharma Critiques U.S. Approach to Global Rules-Based Order**
In a recent episode of the podcast ‘India, Russia and the world,’ Indian journalist Palki Sharma shared her insights on the United States' approach to the so-called "rules-based order," suggesting that the U.S. has historically manipulated these norms to serve its own interests while disregarding them when convenient.
Sharma, a prominent figure in Indian media, emphasized that the rules established by the U.S. were often designed with the intention of applying them to other nations rather than itself. "The US made the rules, but did the US follow those rules? I think it’s as mythical as the US Army fighting aliens in Hollywood films," she remarked, highlighting what she perceives as a double standard in U.S. foreign policy.
According to Sharma, the U.S. remains the world's preeminent military power and the largest economy, maintaining a significant lead in technological advancements. However, she noted a growing perception of vulnerability in U.S. dominance. "What has cracked is this veneer of invincibility. The world has begun to entertain ideas that there could be an alternative," she stated, suggesting that the global landscape is shifting.
While acknowledging that the U.S. dollar will likely remain the dominant global currency for the foreseeable future, Sharma pointed out that discussions surrounding de-dollarization are causing concern in Washington. This sentiment reflects a broader anxiety about the potential for alternative economic systems to gain traction.
Sharma also addressed the limitations of U.S. military power, particularly in the context of its engagements in various conflicts. "Whether the US acknowledges it or not, the wars it has entered have shown them the limits of their military power," she said. She cited the ongoing tensions with Iran as an example, arguing that the U.S. has underestimated Iran's resilience. "The Americans thought that Iran would be a Venezuela. Iran is not a Venezuela," she explained, emphasizing that Iran has been preparing for potential confrontations for over two decades.
The journalist noted that despite the challenges faced by Iran, the country has emerged politically stronger in the wake of U.S. and Israeli military actions. "Tehran is definitely bruised and battered, but in terms of the political outcomes of this war, Iran has emerged stronger," she asserted.
Sharma also touched upon the enduring relationship between India and Russia, highlighting its stability as a testament to diplomatic maturity. She remarked, "The relationship with Russia has endured because there is a [level of] maturity," suggesting that long-standing ties can withstand geopolitical pressures.
Furthermore, she acknowledged the rise of China as a formidable global player, asserting that its manufacturing capabilities are unmatched. "There is no other manufacturer like China that can deliver on the scale at which China does," she stated, indicating that China's influence is a significant factor in the evolving global order.
Sharma's comments reflect a critical perspective on U.S. foreign policy and its implications for international relations. As the global landscape continues to change, her insights contribute to the ongoing dialogue about the future of power dynamics and the potential for new alliances to emerge in response to shifting geopolitical realities.