A second excerpt from a forthcoming novel.
His chief aide was the first to speak. “To state the obvious, this is a game-changer, Minister. China’s demands, and willingness to back them with such extreme measures, signals a new level of confidence. Or recklessness.”
Yoshi nodded slowly, steepling his fingers under his chin. “Recklessness or calculation? That’s the question. And how does this affect Japan? How does it affect the region?”
Yoshi’s second aide interjected. “Minister, if Russia capitulates, China will gain control over vast resources in Siberia. China’s economic and strategic position will be immensely strengthened. But if Russia truly resists, their only option is nuclear. Both scenarios pose significant risks for Japan.”
“Indeed,” Yoshi replied, his tone thoughtful. “And let’s not forget the implications for our alliance with the United States. They will expect us to take a stand, but against whom? China, our largest trading partner after the United States? Or Russia, whose collapse could create a power vacuum on our doorstep?”
The room fell silent, the gravity of the situation continuing to sink in. Yoshi’s gaze swept across his aides, searching for insight. His second aide continued, “Minister, with respect, I don’t see any way to stop the Chinese short of Russia responding with nuclear weapons. The Chinese will administer Siberia at least as well as the Russians. Hopefully better. I do not see any power vacuum. Since the unthinkable is on the table, I hope the Chinese succeed. Japan must accelerate our plans for addressing an ascending China. The only difference being the fully emerged world power versus a rising one.”
“I agree,” Yoshi nodded. “China and the African Federation. If you had told me six months ago we would be where we are, I would have fired any of you on the spot. Yet here we are. We must deal with the here and now.”