Gates wrote his doctoral dissertation on the Sino-Soviet split and whether it could be detected in official media, demonstrating his historical interest in understanding Chinese-Russian relations.

General Michael Minahan, head of the Air Mobility Command, said publicly 'my gut tells me we will fight,' meaning the U.S. will fight China over Taiwan in 2025, which was inappropriate commentary for a senior military officer to make about war and peace between the U.S. and China.