Empty Waters: The Symbolic Withdrawal of US Power in the Pacific The United States' decision to pull its last aircraft carrier, the USS George Washington, from the western Pacific has sparked a mix of concern and opportunism among regional players, including China.
This move is not just about numbers; it's about the perception of American power and commitment to the region.
The war with Iran has stretched the Navy's ability to keep its biggest warships deployed, forcing the redeployment of the USS George Washington to the Middle East.