NATO sends a message to Russia and China.
The NATO Secretary General stated that extensive cooperation between Russia and Belarus has negative consequences for regional stability and the defense of the alliance.
According to RIA Novosti on July 11, in a statement following the NATO summit in Washington on July 10 (Washington time), NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg stated that the deepening political and military cooperation between Russia and Belarus is believed to have negative consequences for regional stability and the defense of the alliance.
"Russia's extensive political and military cooperation with Belarus, including the deployment of advanced Russian military capabilities and personnel, will have negative consequences for regional stability and NATO's defense capabilities," the statement said.
The statement also noted that Russia's increased cooperation with North Korea and Iran has serious implications for Euro-Atlantic security.
At a press conference following the summit, NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg said the summit's joint statement sent China "the most serious message possible," urging it to cease cooperation with Russia, which, according to the alliance, "has harmed NATO's interests and reputation."
"Today's message is the strongest message NATO has ever sent to China regarding China's involvement in the conflict in Ukraine," said the NATO Secretary General.
In particular, NATO's final statement stated that, "China is now playing a decisive role in the Russia-Ukraine conflict through its so-called 'borderless partnership,' by providing support to the Russian military-industrial complex, increasing the threat that Russia poses to its neighbors and to Euro-Atlantic security."
At the same time, NATO also stated that it “remains ready to engage constructively with China, including ensuring mutual transparency.”
On the other hand, regarding the conflict in Ukraine, Secretary General Stoltenberg said that NATO countries have decided to establish a coordinated mission to provide military support to Kyiv and train the Ukrainian army. According to Stoltenberg, this mission will be based in Germany, commanded by a NATO general, and will involve approximately 700 people. Support will also be provided through centers in the eastern part of the alliance.
Stoltenberg argued that this does not make NATO part of the conflict but “simply allows Ukraine to exercise its right to self-defense.” He also stated that NATO intends to provide Ukraine with at least 40 billion euros next year to meet its defense needs. Until now, military support to Kyiv has been coordinated by the United States.
NATO Secretary General Jens Stoltenberg added that the first report on alliance allies' planned military support for Ukraine is scheduled for 2025.