The Avoidable War

In an era dominated by superpowers, the spectre of a conflict between China and the United States looms ever larger. Drawing from an unparalleled depth of knowledge and experience, former Australian Prime Minister Kevin Rudd presents an urgent analysis in The Avoidable War. This book delves into the complex dynamics at play between the world's two most formidable nations and the high stakes involved in maintaining global peace.

Rudd paints a vivid picture of the volatile relationship between China and the United States, a relationship fraught with cultural misunderstandings, historical grievances, and ideological clashes. This precarious balance is further strained by the military brinkmanship, corporate espionage, and sophisticated intelligence warfare that define this modern rivalry. As both nations stand on the precipice of conflict, Rudd offers a timely and critical examination of how a war might be averted.

With over forty years of experience studying, living in, and working with China, Rudd has an extraordinary insight into the minds of the leaders who will ultimately make life-or-death decisions. The Avoidable War demystifies the strategic calculations on both sides, translating their actions and intentions for a global audience. He introduces the concept of "managed strategic competition" as a potential solution, advocating for a delicate equilibrium where both superpowers can coexist without compromising their core interests.

Yet, Rudd warns that failure to achieve this balance could lead to a cataclysmic conflict that would reshape not just the futures of China and the United States, but also the world at large. This cautionary tale is underpinned by Rudd's keen understanding of the historical forces and political motivations driving both nations, making it an essential read for anyone concerned about the future of international relations.

"A lifelong student of China, Kevin Rudd has become one of today's most thoughtful analysts of China's development. The Avoidable War focuses on the signal challenge posed by China's evolution to America and to world order. Can the US and China avoid sleepwalking into a conflict? Rudd offers constructive steps for the two powers to stabilise their relations." - HENRY A. KISSINGER