Russia’s invasion of Ukraine has brought into clear focus the escalating rivalry between the modern-day powers: on one side, the United States and NATO; on the other, China, Russia and their allies.
The invasion has triggered a geopolitical scramble: Sweden and Finland have applied to join NATO, and Russian allies such as Belarus have hardened in their anti-West rhetoric.
In the shadow of powerhouse nations flexing their financial and military muscle, emerging powers are doing all they can to consolidate their standing. India, which has had its own issues with China, is benefiting from a close relationship with Russia, while Indonesia is stuck in the middle as this year's holder of the G20 presidency.
