Formation of the US regional and global strategy at the turn of the modern and contemporary eras: from the far East to Western Europe

This article analyzes the formation of the United States’ regional and global strategy at the turn of the modern and contemporary eras, focusing on key regions for Washington – from the Far East to Western Europe. It is established that following the collapse of the USSR, the US gained unique opportunities to advance its geopolitical and economic interests on the world stage, shaping a unipolar international order. At the same time, the American strategy was based not on classical imperialism but on a comprehensive geopolitical worldview emphasizing free trade, collective security, and the promotion of ideas of freedom and transparency. The initial steps in developing this approach were taken in East Asia, where the US actively pursued policies to open the region for trade and influence, using both diplomatic and military means. A significant milestone was the conclusion of equal treaties with China and the promotion of the “Open Door Policy”, which laid the foundation for the American strategy of open markets and the preservation of other states’ territorial integrity. World War I and Wilson’s Fourteen Points continued this course, aiming to establish a new international order based on collective security and national self-determination. Despite criticism of Wilson’s idealism, his policies represent a logical continuation of longstanding American strategic interests aimed at ensuring free trade and expanding influence, particularly in vital global regions. Thus, the US strategy at the turn of the modern and contemporary eras was multifaceted, combining economic, military, and ideological components that enabled America to consolidate its leadership in the international system.