The new cold war?

THE Taliban's reconquest of Kabul following Washington's meek withdrawal has triggered speculation amongst progressives that the latter plans to halt China's economic and geopolitical advance through the age-old method of war by proxy. After 20 years of stalemate in Afghanistan, is it possible that the US could gleefully watch idly as a Taliban regime in Kabul bleeds a competitor with aspirations for global power? Additionally, even if through different means, does Washington plan to contain China in Latin America, Africa and other parts of Asia too — all regions where Beijing has enhanced its influence over the past two decades?…