China, Russia and the new world disorder

The seven years since 9/11 reveal an old truth: Problems are usually not solved, they are just overtaken by other problems. Those of 8/8, for example. On Aug. 8, 2008, two mighty nations announced their return. Russia, invading Georgia, did it with tanks. China, launching the Beijing Olympics, did it with acrobats. The message was the same: World, we're back.

By Timothy Garton Ash

September 11, 2008