NATO's Stance on China's Role in the Ukraine War
NATO has taken a firm stance against China, accusing it of being a 'crucial accomplice' in Russia's war against Ukraine. The final document of NATO's anniversary summit in Washington mentions China 15 times, highlighting its significant role in the conflict. The defense alliance demands that Beijing stop supplying Russia with dual-use goods, which can be used for both civilian and military purposes. This partnership, according to NATO, is enabling Russia's largest war in Europe in recent history.
China's Support for Russia: A Strategic Partnership
A study by Merics, Chatham House, and GMF reveals the extent of China's support for Russia. Georgian diplomat Natalie Sabanadze, a co-author of the study, states that 'China is doing everything it can to strengthen Russia's military machine.' This support extends beyond dual-use goods, as China helps Russia circumvent Western sanctions. Beijing's main aim is to challenge Western dominance by supporting Moscow. However, China does not want a decisive Russian victory, as it would alter the balance of power unfavorably for Beijing. The only red line for China is the use of nuclear weapons, which could destabilize the international system.
NATO's Military Support for Ukraine
In response to the escalating conflict, NATO countries have pledged reinforced support for Ukraine. This includes transferring F-16 fighter jets from Denmark and the Netherlands, air defense systems from Belgium and Norway, and additional Patriot-type batteries from Germany, the Netherlands, Romania, and Italy. The allies have committed to providing at least 40 billion euros in military aid over the coming year. Despite these efforts, Ukraine's formal invitation to join NATO remains pending due to opposition from several countries, including the United States. Nevertheless, NATO recognizes Ukraine's 'irreversible trajectory' towards membership.
- China has rejected NATO's accusations, claiming it is not responsible for the escalation in Ukraine. Lin Jian, a spokesman for the Chinese Foreign Ministry, stated that China is playing a 'constructive role' and questioned who is truly stoking the flames of conflict.
- Trade data, however, indicates that China is buying Russian gas and oil on a large scale, which supports Russia's war efforts. Despite this, Hungarian Prime Minister Viktor Orbán continues to portray China as a peacemaker, a narrative that conflicts with the reality of China's economic support for Russia.
- The NATO summit in Washington also highlighted political uncertainties in the United States, with President Joe Biden facing challenges within his party and the looming presence of former President Donald Trump. NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg expressed hope that the U.S. would remain a strong ally regardless of the election outcome, while Finnish President Alexander Stubb acknowledged the toxic polarization in American politics.
