Hi maceYou have to remember Pompeo actually told countries to pick a side. I highly doubt China was telling countries to choose a side when they value stability especial in their own relations with the US.
Yes, the one John Mearsheimer told a large Aussie crowd the pitfall of being an American vassal, the funny part is the reaction of the audience there is an audible gasp hahaha, they were shock, they thought they will be treated equally with a voice. There goes your freedom, will had to live with your decision and be an adult and accept your punishment.