Political Economic Analysis: The US-Russia Game and Europe's Dual Dilemma

On today's global political and economic stage, the Ukraine war, as a landmark event, reveals the complex game between great powers. At first glance, Ukraine appears to be the direct battlefield of US-Russia confrontation. However, from a deeper perspective, the Ukraine war reveals not only the competition between two superpowers but also exposes Europe's vulnerability in the international political game, while highlighting the US's strategic goals in the global energy market, political ally relationships, and industrial layout.

I. Ukraine Becomes the 'Biggest Loser': The US and Russia Divide Europe
Ukraine's dilemma lies in the fact that it not only faces territorial encroachment from Russia but is also caught in a dilemma due to US support. In the war, Ukraine has become an agent of the US-Russia game, with its national sovereignty being eroded by Russia, while the US has deeply entangled it in a struggle that does not completely align with its own interests through military aid and economic support.

Russia has occupied parts of Ukrainian territory in the fight, and there are even signs that Russia is controlling more strategic areas through annexation. At the same time, Ukraine's infrastructure, resources, and state-owned assets have been severely damaged due to the ongoing war. More notably, the US has provided large-scale economic aid and loans to Ukraine under the guise of 'war loans', but this aid often carries a strong exploitative nature. For instance, through US funding assistance, Ukraine has had to cede many of its resources and industries to US companies as part of repaying 'war debts'. Ukraine originally possessed rich mineral resources, agricultural land, and strategic locations, and the deprivation of these resources has made Ukraine's economic plight even more severe, making it the biggest loser in this war.

II. The US's 'Power' Policy: From Allies to 'Dishes on the Table'
For a long time, the US has touted itself as the maintainer and leader of the global order under the banner of 'democracy and freedom.' However, under the policies of the Trump administration, countries that once prided themselves as 'table partners' of the US have gradually become 'dishes on the table' for the US. Especially in relation to its neighbor Canada and allies in Europe, who had closely cooperated on trade and military matters, the implementation of hardline trade protectionism policies and tariff sticks by Trump has pushed these former allies into a new 'competitive position.'

Trump's tariff policies directly harmed the interests of the US's trading partners—Canada, European countries, and even some Asian countries. Especially in industries such as agriculture and steel, the US's imposition of high tariffs has not only put economic pressure on these countries but has also forced them to rely on the US for energy and other strategic resources, strengthening the US's voice in the global economy.

III. The US's Economic Exploitation of Taiwan: Dual Control of Arms and Industry
Taiwan has long been regarded internationally as part of China, but economically, it has become a crucial pillar of the global high-tech industry. Particularly, TSMC (Taiwan Semiconductor Manufacturing Company) dominates the global semiconductor industry and holds a very important position in technology and industrial chains. The US's strategic layout in Taiwan involves deep engagement in both economic and military dimensions.

Firstly, the US sells a large amount of 'obsolete weaponry' to Taiwan. Although these weapons no longer meet the most advanced military needs, they provide a stable source of income for the US arms industry. Secondly, by guiding TSMC to relocate its production base to the US, the US has strengthened its control over Taiwan's high-tech industry. As a key player in the global semiconductor industry, TSMC moving its technology and production facilities back to the US undoubtedly enhances the US's voice in the global technology supply chain and further weakens Taiwan's economic autonomy.

IV. Europe's Dilemma in the Russia-Ukraine War: Dual Challenges of Energy and Economy
Europe's choice of stance in the Russia-Ukraine war has plunged it into a dilemma. To align with the US's global strategy, Europe chose to support economic sanctions against Russia and provide financial and military aid to Ukraine. However, this move not only failed to suppress Russia as expected but also drew Europe into the whirlpool of an energy crisis.

With the restrictions on Russian energy exports, Europe's reliance on Russian gas has been severely impacted, leading to skyrocketing energy prices and a sharp rise in living costs for the populace. Meanwhile, Europe's industrial production costs have surged, prompting many production lines to relocate, with some companies even choosing to turn to the US for more competitive energy prices. The energy shortage and high production costs have led to a decline in Europe's industrial base and plunged economic growth into a dilemma.

However, the US's energy exports have found an opportunity at this time, becoming one of the main sources of global liquefied natural gas (LNG) supply. By exporting natural gas to Europe, the US not only fills the energy gap in Europe but also reaps substantial profits. More complicating is that although Russia has lost part of the European market, it has strengthened energy cooperation with emerging markets like China through other avenues, gaining more financial support.

V. The US-Russia Game: In Reality, a Game of Dividing Europe
Superficially, the game between the US and Russia has drawn global attention to the conflict between the two countries. In reality, both are conducting a deeper division on the 'battlefield' of Europe through their respective strategic layouts. The US has gained huge economic benefits through means such as economic sanctions and energy exports, while Russia has compensated for its loss of the Western market by adjusting its energy market.

In this process, Europe has not only faced internal political divisions but has also suffered severe economic setbacks. The US and Russia have effectively 'divided' Europe through their respective means, significantly weakening Europe's autonomy in energy, economy, and politics.

VI. Conclusion: 'Might Makes Right' in the Global Order
From the perspective of the US's global strategic layout, means such as war, trade policy, and energy supply have become effective tools for consolidating its global position and oppressing other countries. Especially in the context of the Russia-Ukraine war, Europe and Ukraine, as passive participants, face not only political and economic pressures but also hold an extremely unfavorable position in the global energy system and resource distribution. Through 'ally friendship' and 'power politics', the US has not only ensured its strategic advantage but has also further exploited the resources and interests of other countries.

The changes in the global economic landscape reveal an unignorable reality: the 'might makes right' rule in international politics is reshaping the global order through war, economic control, and resource distribution. Under this new order, Europe, Ukraine, and other former 'partners' may be cast aside by the tide of history, becoming victims in the great power game.