Second Cold War Research Paper

Over the course of history, several global conflicts have threatened the world. The Cold War is among the most significant conflicts the world has ever faced, that took place in 1945, two years after the 2nd world war. It was the first total war between economic and social systems, and an industrial test to destruction, between the two biggest superpowers at the time, the United States and the Soviet Union. It was a race for world domination and a contest between communism and capitalism that lasted up to 46 years. However a second more threatening cold war is on the horizon. Many aspects patently show that the the world facing a second cold war such as todays emerging powers of the world, the race to nuclear arms and the war on petroleum.

Russia is one country that has gradually grown powerful and its increasing power is apparent through its invasion of Ukraine and recent annexation of Crimea. Putin’s intention to return Crimea to Russia is condemned by several world leaders as well as NATO. Russia’s annexation of Crimea is considered a violation of the Budapest memorandum of sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine, which was signed by Russia in 1944. Such actions evidently show Russia’s imposing of power and growing threat. Some have even argued that Russia is a totalitarian system in disguise. North Korea on the other hand is a totalitarian power that’s risen and imposed its power on others as well. North Korea has retaliated in several ways to countries questioning Kim Jong Un’s dictatorship. South Korea is one of several countries in conflict with North Korea and some believe the two conflicting sides are on the brink of war. The South Korean military has witnessed countless missile tests conducted by North Korea over seas, without notice, and without designating a no-sail zone in advance. Researchers recently found that North Korea has over a thousand ballistic missiles at their disposal, which pose a serious threat

It can be a huge asset in today’s cold war. The United States actions and manipulation of today’s gas prices evidently show their strategic use of oil, to gain the upper hand in its fight against rivaling countries. Michael Reagan, the son of late president Ronald Reagan gave his opinion on the matter stating that driving down oil is the key to stopping Russian president Vladimir Putin in his tracks. Such strategy is evident through the United States recent efforts in lowering gas prices. The government has recently stated that lower gas prices will continue through the summer of 2015, and are expected to be 32% lower. The idea is that cheap oil, would bankrupt or at the least be a huge economical hit against Russia, similar to how the collapse in oil prices engineered by Saudi Arabia, bankrupted the old Soviet Union. Reagan believes that oil is the most powerful weapon in today’s cold war. One of the major disputes between Russia and Ukraine was centered around oil. Russia is aware of the risk and is discussing offering gas discounts and loans as well as giving pre-payment of profits to Greece from a future gas pipeline project. The United States and Russia have shown huge interest in the oil war, knowing how significant oil is in their struggle and competition. Their strategic maneuvers and manipulation of the oil market are yet another sign of a rising cold