A Japan Ground Self-Defense Force mid-range multi-purpose missile is fired during a live-fire exercise at the East Fuji Maneuver Area on June 7, 2026, in Gotemba, Japan. (Getty Images)
The flag used by the Taliban's interim government is seen over Afghanistan’s embassy in Moscow on July 4, 2025, after Russia officially recognized the Taliban government in Afghanistan. (Getty Images)
A Philippine Air Force Black Hawk helicopter lands on June 29, 2023, on Mavulis Island, which is the Philippines’ northernmost island and is roughly 88 miles from Taiwan. (Getty Images)
Senior lecturer in the Department of Security Studies and Criminology at Macquarie University, Council of the Australian Strategic Policy Institute
President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi talk during their summit meeting at the Akasaka Palace on October 28, 2025, in Tokyo, Japan. (Getty Images)
A Xuanji A3 chip is pictured at the BYD booth during the World Artificial Intelligence Conference (WAIC) in Shanghai on July 18, 2026. (Photo by Hector RETAMAL / AFP via Getty Images)
Russian President Vladimir Putin and Chinese President Xi Jinping shake hands during a signing ceremony at the Great Hall of the People on May 20, 2026, in Beijing, China. (Getty Images)