Moscow, Russia – As the US presidential election draws near, the eyes of the world are on the potential impact the outcome will have on global affairs. From Moscow to Beijing, foreign correspondents are weighing in on the significance of the upcoming election.

In Russia, observers are closely watching for signs of instability as they anticipate the results of the race for the White House. While President Vladimir Putin has expressed a preference for the predictability of Joe Biden, many in Moscow remain wary of a Nato-sceptic, Ukraine-sceptic US president. The Kremlin’s hopes of improved relations with the US were dashed during the first Trump presidency, leaving doubts about what a second term would bring for Russia.

Meanwhile, in China, the biggest differences between the candidates lie in their approach to dealing with Beijing’s regional influence, particularly concerning Taiwan. While Joe Biden has pledged to defend the self-governing island, Donald Trump’s stance has raised questions about his commitment to supporting Taiwan in times of need. For Beijing, an unpredictable Trump presidency may lead to weakened alliances in the region, while a Biden victory could potentially escalate tensions and lead to a new Cold War.

In Ukraine, the stakes are high as the country navigates ongoing conflict with Russian forces. US support has been crucial in sustaining Ukraine’s war effort, but the focus in Kyiv is less on the US election and more on immediate concerns such as Russian aggression. Residents are keenly aware of the candidates’ positions on aid and assistance to Ukraine, with fears that a change in leadership could bring uncertainty to the region.

The United Kingdom is also closely monitoring the US election, with policymakers expressing concerns about potential decisions that could affect the UK. From military support for Ukraine to trade wars with China, there are fears of political instability following a close election result. Furthermore, there is a broader worry about the impact of a crisis of American democracy on global leadership, which could have repercussions for the UK as it prepares for its own upcoming election.

As the US election approaches, countries around the world are bracing for potential shifts in global dynamics, with billions of dollars in trade on the line for Canada and key decisions looming for India and Mexico. The outcome of the election will undoubtedly have far-reaching consequences, shaping international relations and alliances in the years to come.