Adjustment of US Diplomatic Strategy in the Context of “Energy Revolution”

Abstract

The shale gas revolution that broke out in the United States in 2008 is quietly changing global pattern. The United States depending on imported for long is expected to gain energy independence in the next 20 years. Subsequently, the behavioral pattern of the US diplomacy is also gradually shifting from pre-emptive actionto leading from behind. While accelerating the pace of shifting its focus eastwards,the United States without oil burden is speeding up its withdrawal from the Middle East by ingeniously adopting selective engagement and playing political game with Russia by taking advantage of the Achilles' heel of European energy. Although there are signs of contraction in current US global strategy, however, with the sustained economic recovery and the materialized benefits of energy revolution, the United States will likely resume its active involvement in international affairs instead of maintaining its strategic nonfeasance posture within the next few years so as to reverse the unfavorable situation of its deteriorating hegemony.