Kenneth Waltz's article "The Emerging Structure of International Politics" discusses the structural changes in the international system following the end of the Cold War. Waltz argues that the bipolar structure of the international system, characterized by the Cold War and the nuclear weapons of some states, has persisted in an altered form due to the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Russia, now independent, maintains its power, and no new great powers have emerged. With the waning of Russian influence, the United States is no longer checked by another country, and other powers are expected to balance American power. Waltz predicts that three political units—Germany or a West European state, Japan, and China—could rise to great-power status. Despite these developments, the United States will remain the leading economic and military power for some time. The article explores the implications of these changes for international relations and the balance of power.Kenneth Waltz's article "The Emerging Structure of International Politics" discusses the structural changes in the international system following the end of the Cold War. Waltz argues that the bipolar structure of the international system, characterized by the Cold War and the nuclear weapons of some states, has persisted in an altered form due to the dissolution of the Soviet Union. Russia, now independent, maintains its power, and no new great powers have emerged. With the waning of Russian influence, the United States is no longer checked by another country, and other powers are expected to balance American power. Waltz predicts that three political units—Germany or a West European state, Japan, and China—could rise to great-power status. Despite these developments, the United States will remain the leading economic and military power for some time. The article explores the implications of these changes for international relations and the balance of power.