The alliance with Japan has been the cornerstone of U.S. security policy in East Asia for decades. Now, Japan’s role in global security is growing as challenges from China and North Korea mount.

Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe has introduced audacious economic policies to combat deflation, but the U.S. withdrawal from TPP and other factors have complicated his efforts.

China and Russia have expanded trade and defense ties over the past decade, but they’re not formal allies. Experts say Russia’s war in Ukraine could be a turning point in the relationship.