A ‘Reverse Kissinger’? Why Trump’s Anti-China Rapprochement with Russia Is Likely to Fail

This article critically examines the notion of a prospective US–Russia rapprochement under President Donald Trump, framed by references to a ‘reverse Kissinger’ strategy aimed at breaking the Sino-Russian partnership. Building on Trump’s statements and early policy moves during his second term, the article puts to the test the historical analogy with Richard Nixon’s 1972 opening to China. While diplomatic realignments have historically reshaped the global order, this piece argues that equating present dynamics with Cold War precedents oversimplifies the complex nature of today’s multipolar world. Over-reliance on the thesis of a ‘reverse Kissinger’ ultimately risks misinforming US strategy, and may also accelerate fragmented rearmament across Europe, heighten tensions with Russia and undermine NATO cohesion.