"Based on all criteria - military power, economic influence, cultural dominance - America remains number one, even though other, new players are increasingly challenging it in that role"

This quote by Robert Kagan recommends that America is still the most effective country on the planet, regardless of the emergence of other countries that are increasingly challenging its position. He is referring to the three primary requirements for determining a nation's power: military power, financial influence, and cultural supremacy. America has long been the leader in all 3 of these locations, however other nations are now beginning to capture up. This is a testament to the strength and durability of the American country, in addition to the growing power of other countries. Regardless of the increasing competition, America is still the number one country worldwide.