Modi-Xi-Putin Image Sparks Global Debate: US Commentator Warns “Everybody Against Us, Not Good for America”

A photograph of Indian Prime Minister Narendra Modi, Chinese President Xi Jinping, and Russian President Vladimir Putin sharing a moment of camaraderie at the Shanghai Cooperation Organisation (SCO) Summit 2025 in Tianjin, China, has ignited a wave of geopolitical commentary across the globe. The image, showing the three leaders smiling and engaging warmly, has been interpreted by Western analysts as a symbol of shifting global power dynamics—and a warning sign for the United States.

American political commentator Van Jones, speaking on CNN, described the image as “a dagger aimed at the heart of the West,” adding that “everybody is against us, and that’s not good for America.” His remarks have triggered intense debate on the implications of a rising multipolar world order and the strategic realignments taking shape in Asia.

🧭 Key Highlights from the SCO Summit 2025

Held from August 31 to September 1, the SCO Summit brought together leaders from member states including Iran, North Korea, and Central Asian republics. The optics of the Modi-Xi-Putin trio have become the focal point of Western media analysis.

🔍 Van Jones’ Commentary: A Wake-Up Call for the West

Van Jones, a former CNN anchor and current political analyst, did not mince words during his segment on CNN. Referring to the image of Modi, Xi, and Putin, he said:

“That image should send chills down the spine of every American. The West is trapped. It’s all versus us. It’s a dagger pointed at the heart of the West.”

Jones further added that the gathering represented a “new world order,” where the United States finds itself increasingly isolated amid rising cooperation among nations it has sanctioned or confronted diplomatically.

His remarks come amid rising tensions between the US and several Asian powers, exacerbated by trade wars, sanctions, and divergent positions on global conflicts like the war in Ukraine.

📉 US–Asia Relations: A Snapshot of Strategic Strain

The SCO Summit has emerged as a platform for these nations to showcase solidarity and explore alternatives to Western-led institutions.

🔥 The Image That Sparked the Storm

The viral photograph captured Modi clasping Putin’s hand and laughing, while Xi Jinping looked on with a smile. Other images showed Modi and Putin walking shoulder to shoulder, exchanging pleasantries with Xi, and engaging in animated conversation before the group photo.

Western media outlets like The New York Times and The Washington Post described the tableau as “a message of unity among nations challenging the Western order”.

🧠 Expert Commentary and Global Reactions

While some analysts caution against overinterpreting the optics, others believe the image reflects deeper strategic realignments.

📦 Multipolar World Order: What It Means for the US

Van Jones’ commentary has reignited discussions on the future of US foreign policy and its ability to adapt to a multipolar world. With countries like India, China, and Russia asserting greater autonomy, the US faces challenges in maintaining its influence.

The Biden administration’s successor, under President Donald Trump’s second term, has adopted a more confrontational stance, further alienating key partners.

📌 Conclusion

The image of Modi, Xi, and Putin at the SCO Summit 2025 has become more than a photograph—it’s a symbol of shifting global tides. As American commentator Van Jones warned, “everybody against us” may not just be a perception but a strategic reality the West must confront. For India, the moment reflects its growing role as a bridge between competing powers. For the world, it signals the rise of a multipolar order where diplomacy, not dominance, will shape the future.

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Disclaimer: This article is based on publicly available media reports, expert commentary, and summit coverage as of September 4, 2025. It is intended for informational purposes only and does not constitute diplomatic or political advice.