NATO Criticizes China for Helping Russia in Ukraine War at Washington Summit
At a summit in Washington, DC, hosted by US President Joe Biden, NATO accused China of being a ‘decisive enabler’ of Russia’s war against Ukraine. The 32-member alliance issued a joint declaration condemning China’s support for Russia’s defense industry, which has emboldened Moscow’s military operations in Ukraine.
NATO leaders expressed concerns over China’s deepening ties with Russia, including a ‘no limits’ partnership and large-scale support for Russia’s defense industrial base. They urged Beijing to stop all material and political support for Russia’s war effort.
The alliance also highlighted China’s increasing capabilities in space, alleged ‘malicious cyber activities,’ and the rapid expansion of its nuclear arsenal. Despite claims of neutrality, China’s economic and diplomatic backing for Russia has raised alarms among Western leaders.
China criticized NATO’s statement, calling it ‘filled with Cold War mentality and belligerent rhetoric.’ Beijing asserted that it aims to promote peace talks and seek a political settlement for the Ukraine crisis.
NATO’s focus on Asia-Pacific security dynamics has intensified, reflecting concerns over China’s assertiveness in maritime disputes and strategic rivalries. The US and European Union have imposed sanctions on Chinese entities supporting Russia’s aggression.
NATO leaders also condemned North Korea and Iran for supporting Russia’s war efforts, including North Korea’s exports of artillery shells and ballistic missiles to Russia.
As NATO ramps up its criticism of China’s global ambitions, Beijing has accused NATO of exacerbating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. NATO’s evolving strategy reflects a broader recalibration of global power dynamics, with China and Russia challenging the Western-led order.