NATO identifies China as threat due to support for Russia

When NATO leaders convene in Washington, their discussions will primarily focus on Ukraine, Russia, and European defense expenditures.

However, looming over their summit is a country situated far from alliance territory that NATO did not even acknowledge until five years ago: China, Caliber.Az reports citing the foreign media.

Today, Beijing plays a significantly larger role in the strategies of NATO's 30 members and their close partners in the Asia-Pacific region.

NATO governments have accused China of aiding Russia in its conflict with Ukraine, alleging involvement in espionage, cyberattacks, and disinformation campaigns within their borders.

Additionally, China has leveraged its economic influence to retaliate against European nations that support Taiwan. According to alliance diplomats, NATO intends to criticize China for supporting Russia's invasion of Ukraine in its summit communiqué.

Recently, Europeans and Asians viewed themselves as occupying distinct geopolitical spheres, with the US bridging these regions due to its global role and geographic position. However, this perception has evolved.

"There is now a greater recognition of the strategic linkage between these two theaters," remarked Deputy Secretary of State Kurt Campbell during a recent visit to Brussels.

Some NATO members from Southern Europe, prioritizing concerns such as illegal migration and threats from the Middle East over Asian issues, quietly supported France in certain discussions.

Canada has noted an increase in Chinese dual-purpose research vessels and surveillance platforms gathering data about the Canadian North, which under Chinese law is accessible to China's military.

NATO's outgoing Secretary-General Jens Stoltenberg pointed out that China aims to maintain strong relations with the West, particularly economic ties with Europe, even as it supports Russia.

"Beijing cannot have it both ways," he stated. "At some juncture—and unless China alters its course—allies must impose consequences."

China's Foreign Ministry responded to questions about NATO's stance by criticizing the alliance for its unwavering reliance on military force, adherence to a Cold War mindset, and promotion of bloc confrontation. The ministry argued that these factors constitute the actual threat to peace and stability in the region and globally.