Russia & China Checkmate: US Empire Just Ended | Dr. Daniele Ganser

Summary

Host Pascal Lottaz interviews Swiss historian and peace researcher Dr. Daniele Ganser about his book Kampf der Giganten (“Fight of the Giants”), which examines China, Russia, the United States, and the rise of a multipolar world. The speakers argue that Western policy has brought Moscow and Beijing closer, while Lottaz notes that China does not describe the relationship as a formal alliance.

Russia, China, and the shift in global power

Ganser identifies the Putin–Xi meeting on February 4, 2022, as a turning point. At the meeting, the two leaders jointly opposed further NATO expansion and US interference in China’s internal affairs. Ganser sees their growing cooperation as a response to US power and a sign of emerging multipolarity.

NATO and the Ukraine war

The speakers argue that NATO’s eastward expansion and the rejection of Russian proposals for security negotiations contributed to the conflict. They cite the 2021 Biden–Putin meeting, Russia’s draft treaties, and the 2008 NATO summit’s promise of eventual membership for Ukraine and Georgia as missed diplomatic opportunities.

Ganser calls Russia’s invasion illegal, while arguing that it was provoked. Both speakers contend that the war could have been halted through negotiations in 2022. They describe the conflict as especially tragic because of the close historical and social ties between Russians and Ukrainians.

Great-power security and historical comparisons

The speakers compare NATO expansion near Russia with how the United States might react to a Chinese military alliance with Cuba or Mexico. They discuss the Cuban Missile Crisis as an example of great powers negotiating over each other’s security concerns. They also refer to the debate over German reunification and assurances reportedly given to Soviet leaders about NATO’s eastward expansion.

Iran and opposition to US power

Ganser frames Iran, Russia, and China as part of a broader pushback against US influence. He claims that Iranian strikes damaged US military and radar facilities in the Gulf, and says Chinese BeiDou satellite navigation may have helped Iran guide drones and missiles. These points are presented as Ganser’s interpretation of events, alongside his argument that Western discussion often lacks a vocabulary for describing anti-imperialist resistance.

Europe, neutrality, and sanctions

Ganser says that a Swiss initiative to strengthen neutrality received about 30% support. He argues that Switzerland’s adoption of EU sanctions against Russia undermines its neutrality, even though Switzerland is not in the EU or NATO and does not send weapons to Ukraine.

The speakers also criticize European leaders’ support for Ukraine and worry that escalating involvement could increase the risk of confrontation with Russia.

Colonial history and Europe’s changing role

The speakers say Europe is losing its former central position after centuries of colonial dominance. They discuss the economic consequences of losing Russian gas supplies and criticize what they see as Europe’s failure to listen to perspectives from Russia, China, Africa, and Southeast Asia.

They also condemn Western governments’ response to Gaza, with Ganser describing Israel’s actions as genocide.

A possible multipolar future

Ganser hopes Europe will adopt a more humble approach, acknowledge past colonialism, resume trade, and pursue mutually beneficial relations. Both speakers say a peaceful multipolar order is possible, but warn that nuclear escalation remains a danger. Ganser argues that peace activists should emphasize a constructive vision rather than treating catastrophe as inevitable.

Independent media and public engagement

The speakers praise online media and commentators who challenge dominant narratives, while acknowledging that independent platforms may face pressure. They encourage viewers to support peace efforts through discussion groups, writing, video channels, and other forms of civic engagement. They argue that ordinary people are not powerless and that opposition to war is widespread.

Presenters and contributors

• Pascal Lottaz: Host
• Dr. Daniele Ganser: Guest