NATO Leaders Gather With Asia-Pacific Allies Amid Rising China Concerns

In Washington, NATO leaders, including U.S. President Joe Biden, met with Asia-Pacific partners and Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy to discuss China’s growing support for Russia’s invasion. NATO recently identified China as a “decisive enabler” of Russia, prompting sharp criticism from Beijing, which accused the alliance of seeking security at the expense of others.

NATO Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg emphasized the global nature of security, welcoming South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol. He highlighted the conflict in Ukraine as a prime example of why allies must work closely to maintain peace.

President Biden’s closing press conference is anticipated to address the American public’s concerns and showcase his leadership amid domestic political challenges.
European Union foreign policy chief Josep Borrell stressed the importance of including all partners in discussions to ensure stability, given China’s strengthening ties with Russia and regional tensions in the Indo-Pacific.

The summit also saw participation from Australia, New Zealand, Japan, and South Korea, emphasizing a united stance against authoritarian regimes. Zelenskyy joined the NATO-Ukraine Council meeting, reaffirming Ukraine’s commitment to joining NATO despite the ongoing conflict.

A missile attack on Ukraine’s largest children’s hospital on the eve of the summit underscored the ongoing threat from Russian President Vladimir Putin. NATO leaders pledged continued military support for Ukraine, with a new program to provide equipment and training.

NATO committed approximately €40 billion ($43.5 billion) in annual military aid to bolster Ukraine’s defense capabilities. The summit underscored the necessity of a united approach to global security challenges, focusing on countering China’s influence and supporting Ukraine.

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