The dynamics of US-China relations can be examined through three distinct lenses: short-term, medium-term, and long-term perspectives. In the immediate context, China has secured four significant outcomes: halting rare earth exports to counter US tariffs, leveraging military displays to deter US aggression, weakening India’s alignment with the US, and boosting trade surpluses with third countries despite declining exports to the US. These maneuvers reflect China’s strategic agility in navigating geopolitical tensions. In the medium term, however, China’s alliances with Russia and Iran have proven costly, draining resources and entangling Beijing in conflicts that may not yield favorable outcomes. The long-term outlook remains uncertain, particularly regarding China’s ability to address structural issues such as its massive trade surplus and currency convertibility. Historically, similar challenges contributed to the downfall of the Ming and Qing dynasties. Today, China’s ambition to dominate global trade hinges on adopting free-market principles, which could paradoxically lead to de-industrialization. Meanwhile, the US faces its own set of challenges, including declining alliances and a lack of cohesive long-term strategies. While China appears to have a plan, its domestic economic woes, such as rising debt and a collapsing real estate sector, pose significant risks. Ultimately, the future of US-China relations will depend on how both nations navigate these complex and interconnected challenges.