NATO Secretary General Stoltenberg: 'China is fueling the largest conflict in Europe since World War II'

NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg delivered a speech at the Wilson Center think tank as part of his official visit to Washington.

Stating that while the U.S. is a very large country on its own, everyone is "much stronger" together with NATO allies, Stoltenberg expressed that attacks can be prevented through the mutual support of all allies.

Pointing out that European countries are contributing much more to collective defense, Stoltenberg said, "European countries have increased their defense spending to record levels."

Noting that he would announce new figures regarding defense during his meeting with U.S. President Joe Biden today, Stoltenberg reported that more than 20 NATO allies will allocate 2 percent of their Gross Domestic Product (GDP) to defense this year.

Stoltenberg recalled that 5 years ago, only about 10 NATO members were investing 2 percent of their GDP in the defense sector.

RUSSIA - UKRAINE WAR

Recalling that he has proposed a financial commitment to provide Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros in military support annually for as long as it is needed, Stoltenberg assessed, "The war will end sooner if Moscow understands that it cannot wait us out and make us give up."

Noting that efforts must be made to ensure Russia understands that "aggression will not pay off" today or in the future, Stoltenberg explained that they will continue to work to bring Ukraine closer to NATO membership and are taking different steps to achieve this.

Stating that Russian President Vladimir Putin has failed to "convince" NATO countries, Stoltenberg expressed that this is why strong support for Ukraine continues.

Stoltenberg said, "Russia is the aggressor; it has pursued an aggressive stance toward Ukraine for many years. We support Ukraine's legal right to self-defense."

Arguing that Putin is trying to rebuild a sphere of influence, Stoltenberg stated on the other hand that there is no indication of any preparation for an attack against any NATO ally.

CHINA

Underlining that the war in Ukraine has shown that security is not a regional but a global issue, Stoltenberg noted that China is providing support to Russia.

Using the phrase, "China is fueling the largest conflict in Europe since World War II," Stoltenberg also said that Beijing is trying to maintain good relations with the West at the same time.

Stating, "China cannot have it both ways," Stoltenberg pointed out that the country also has close relations with North Korea and Iran.

The NATO Secretary General stated that if China "does not change course," allies must be prepared to make Beijing's activities costly.

News Source: AA