At the centre of the vital Asia–Pacific region, Thailand is important. But, despite its large population and powerful military forces performing significant roles in state and society, Thailand has little military power.
Australia’s preoccupation with the US-China dynamic in recent years is unsurprising — given its historic relationship with America and the size of economic engagement with China.
Australia must deal now with an inexperienced American leadership inclined to reject expertise. Intelligence chiefs have been removed from the most important decision-making apparatus, the National Security Council, and replaced with ideologues. The potential for grave errors of judgment appears greater than in years.
