NATO director says that China must get punished
Date
6/24/2024 8:37:03 AM
(MENAFN) NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg has intensified his criticism of China, asserting that Beijing must face repercussions for allegedly bolstering Russia's military capabilities during the ongoing conflict in Ukraine. Speaking at the Wilson Center in Washington on Monday, Stoltenberg accused China of contributing to the escalation of what he termed as the largest armed conflict in Europe since World War II by supplying microelectronics and other crucial components to Moscow.
Stoltenberg emphasized that China's actions were contradictory, as it sought to maintain positive relations with Western countries while simultaneously aiding Russia in its operations against Ukraine, a NATO ally. He stressed that unless Beijing changes its stance, NATO allies would need to impose costs on China for its role in sustaining the conflict.
The NATO chief's remarks reflect a consistent theme in his statements since the onset of the Ukraine crisis in February 2022, where he has frequently criticized China for enabling Russia's military efforts against Ukraine. This latest rebuke marks one of Stoltenberg's strongest criticisms yet, hinting at potential NATO sanctions targeting China's involvement.
Furthermore, Stoltenberg highlighted North Korea and Iran as other nations supporting Russia's defense capabilities, underscoring broader concerns within NATO regarding global alignments impacting European security. He reiterated NATO's need to expand its focus beyond Europe, particularly towards the Indo-Pacific region, to counter what he described as the growing collaboration between Russia and authoritarian regimes in Asia.
Looking ahead, Stoltenberg revealed plans to engage leaders from Japan, South Korea, Australia, and New Zealand at an upcoming NATO summit in Washington. This initiative aims to strengthen cooperation among nations committed to upholding the international rules-based order amidst geopolitical challenges posed by Russia and its allies.
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