No empire has lasted forever, and the American empire is not an exception. Imperial overstretch is what will bring America down. Let's not underestimate China and Russia. In Asia, China will sooner or later take over the leadership role. Its simple. These days many Asians are learning Chinese, and the Chinese soft power is also on the rise in Asia. "China has been around for 3000 years, America has been around [in Asia] for 50 years and we don't know whether it [US] will still be around after 50 years.. so its in our best interests to be in friendly terms with China"-- remarked a former Thai Foreign Minister, which pretty much sums up what Asian diplomats think of China. Russia has overtly started to challenge the US. For example, the new nculear shield penetrating missile, and billions and billions of dollars on R&D for other defense related products. Russia under Pu*tin seems to be regaining its military power. Even the US hard power has failed it repeatedly. Korea, Iran, China, Russia, Iraq, Vietnam. You can bully small nations, but when it comes to heavyweights, you rely on diplomacy. When diplomacy fails, you rely on the UN or backtrack your position. Its simple. Even if the relationship between China and the US deterirates to the point of war, there will be no war between them. Historically speaking, America and China have never fought a war inside China. The only time they let their guns loose was in Korea and we all know what happned then. Also lets not forget the US state department and the Pentagon have always strongly opposed any beligerent action against China-- Wasn't Douglas McArthur fired for saying America should nuke China? K k lekhiyo lekhiyo... its a crazy friday afternoon here.