Jens Stoltenberg: Trump, China and NATO's future (Part 2)
Sep 18, 2024
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In a riveting conversation, Jens Stoltenberg, the outgoing NATO Secretary General, reveals insights about the growing axis between China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, signaling future threats to global security. Larisa Brown, Defence Editor at The Times, analyzes how these dynamics affect NATO's collective defense and the potential challenges from Hungary's ambiguous support. They explore ongoing crises, particularly the Ukraine-Russia conflict, and emphasize NATO's readiness to defend its members amid rising authoritarian coalitions.
Jens Stoltenberg emphasizes the unpredictable nature of future threats to NATO, underscoring the importance of preparedness over predictions amid global instability.
He expresses concern about the growing military and diplomatic alliance between Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea, highlighting the potential challenges this coalition poses to Western security.
Deep dives
Insights on NATO's Future Threats
The discussion focuses on the unpredictable nature of future threats facing NATO, as emphasized by Jens Stoltenberg. Stoltenberg highlights the significance of preparedness over predictions, stating that crises often emerge unexpectedly. This perspective takes into account the varying dynamics among NATO members, especially regarding potential shifts in U.S. leadership and its effects on the alliance. The uncertainty introduced by figures like Donald Trump, who has expressed skepticism about NATO's role, raises questions about unity and collective defense among member states.
Concerns Over Authoritarian Alliances
Stoltenberg expresses alarm about the growing alignment between authoritarian regimes, specifically Russia, China, Iran, and North Korea. This coalition poses a multifaceted threat as they increasingly support one another militarily and diplomatically, particularly in the context of Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The synergy exhibited through joint military exercises and shared technological advancements raises fears about a coordinated aggressiveness from these nations. Analysts suggest that the West must prepare for potential conflicts with this 'axis of upheaval' in the future.
China's Role in Russia's Military Actions
Stoltenberg identifies China as a critical supporter of Russia's military efforts against Ukraine, assisting in the wartime economy through military component supplies. The relationship between China and Russia exemplifies an erosion of their future autonomy, as Russia relies heavily on China for resources. The implications of this partnership suggest that as tensions rise, the West may face escalating challenges. The intelligence surrounding specific military exchanges remains murky, indicating potential future escalations in military support from China to Russia.
In more from his exclusive interview with The Times, outgoing NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg discusses the growing alliance between China, Russia, Iran and North Korea, and future threats to NATO. Plus, he insists all members would carry out their duty to defend each other in the event of an attack on a NATO country. The Times' Defence Editor, Larisa Brown, joins the World in 10 to analyse Stoltenberg's thoughts.
The World in 10 is the Times' daily podcast dedicated to global security. Expert analysis of war, diplomatic relations and cyber security from The Times' foreign correspondents and military specialists.