Jens Asbjørn Bøgen
According to Rutte, it could be a Chinese plot to make it easier to take Taiwan.
According to Rutte, it could be a Chinese plot to make it easier to take Taiwan.
Rutte Warns of a Strategic Ploy Linking China and Russia
In a bold assertion, NATO Secretary General Mark Rutte told The New York Times that China may exploit its alliance with Russia to provoke conflict in Europe.
The aim? To distract NATO while Beijing makes a move on Taiwan.
The Indo-Pacific Connection
Rutte emphasized that NATO’s security isn’t confined to Europe.
With US interests deeply embedded in Asia, any conflict in the Indo-Pacific—particularly over Taiwan—would reverberate across the alliance.
A Calculated Diversion Tactic
If China chooses to invade Taiwan, Rutte suggests it might prompt Russia to strike NATO targets.
This strategic diversion could shift Western focus away from Asia, giving China freer rein in the Pacific.
Unequal Partners with Shared Goals
The NATO chief described the power dynamic bluntly, calling Russian President Vladimir Putin a “very junior partner” to Chinese President Xi Jinping.
He warned that Xi would likely coordinate with Putin ahead of any aggression toward Taiwan.
Don’t Be Naïve, Rutte Tells the West
Rutte urged both American and European leaders to abandon any illusions about China and Russia’s intentions.
He called for heightened vigilance against potential coordinated military moves by the two powers.
Deterrence Is Key
To prevent such a scenario, Rutte insists that NATO must present such a strong front that any attack would be suicidal for Russia.
The goal is to deter aggression through overwhelming military and political resolve.
Building Ties with the Indo-Pacific
Another critical step, according to Rutte, is closer defense cooperation with Indo-Pacific nations.
He cited growing momentum behind this strategy, even noting support from figures like US-President Donald Trump.
China’s Backing of Russia Is No Secret
Despite its official neutrality, China has shown increasing support for Russia.
This alignment contradicts its longstanding public stance but reflects deeper geopolitical strategy.
China’s Economic Stake in Russia
China’s support isn’t just political. It’s buying massive quantities of Russian oil, gas, and metals, ensuring Moscow remains economically afloat—and potentially ready for coordinated action if tensions escalate.
