The tragedy of flight MH17 may be a turning point for the crisis in Ukraine as international public opinion turns against Pro-Russia forces and Russia. In a world where regional conflicts are globalized, the Sino-Russian relationship could complicate relations between China and Europe, but the renewed focus on Russia may force the US to reduce strategic pressures on China.

Given the recent rhetoric about Russia’s resurgence and the country’s attempt at controlling Ukraine, Zheng Yu analyzes and discusses US policies that are key to containing Russia. Additionally, Yu stresses that Russia will eventually and inevitably have to come to terms with these policies.

Following issues in Crimea, the topic of “core national interests” continues to emerge as a critical point in geopolitics. As Stephen Harner explains, it is necessary for the United States to follow China’s lead and define its own core interests. By eliminating any uncertainty over national priorities, both nations can continue seeking “A New Type of Great Power Relations.”

As international tensions increase over Russia’s actions in Crimea, China continues to keep a low profile. Ted Galen Carpenter explains that as China’s leaders exhibit nervous ambivalence over the developments, the United States should not misinterpret this as siding with Western powers.

Following the crisis in Ukraine, Russia-US relations will have to go through a readjustment, relaxation and gradual improvement, writes Yu Sui.

Skillful Chinese diplomacy has managed to transform an initial damage limitation strategy into one that will likely bring benefits to Beijing. China has won praise from both sides of the conflict without suffering any major costs. Although Beijing will not apply sanctions to Moscow for its actions, China has expressed disapproval of the Crimean referendum through its silence—probably the best Washington can hope for.

Although China’s response to the current crisis in Ukraine has been complex; China has increasing tilted toward Moscow. This decision has drawn praise from within China, but criticism from the international community.

As the tumultuous political situation in Ukraine continues to raise concerns amongst the international community, Zhao Mingwen lays out three reasons why the issue has gained prominence with Chinese citizens.

Could the current recovery of global financial markets be jeopardized by sanctions against Russia? As tensions between the West and Russia continue to heighten over the state of Crimea, Wu Zurong urges the United States to respect Russia’s concerns and embrace a policy of non-intervention.

While observing the Ukraine crisis, China should also bear in mind that both China and Russia are confronted with Western pressure. China should therefore promote strategic collaboration with Russia and counter Western interference, writes Chen Xiangyang.