(ConservativeSense.com) – Director of National Intelligence Avril Haines has told a Congressional committee that China and Russia are conducting military exercises together, and she sees “no reason” why the two countries wouldn’t aid each other in the event of a Chinese invasion of Taiwan. Other experts supported that view and told the Senate Armed Services Committee that increased cooperation between Moscow and Beijing had prompted reflection and new planning inside the Pentagon.
Questioned by Senator Mike Rounds, Ms. Haines confirmed that a war with either Russia or China would likely result in war with both. Lieutenant General Jeffrey Kruse concurred, saying they would “certainly be cooperative.” On the specific question of whether Russia will likely assist China with a Taiwanese invasion, experts believe it will, in return for Beijing’s help in bringing Russia in from the cold after it invaded Ukraine.
The US has accused China of propping up Russia’s war by providing equipment components and being one of the few countries willing to continue trade and other relations with Moscow. NATO chief Jens Stoltenberg recently accused Beijing of “trying to have it both ways” by maintaining friendship with Russia while simultaneously seeking normal relations with the West.
Mr. Stoltenberg said extra sanctions on China must be considered if Beijing does not “change its behavior.” In May, US officials announced a series of sanctions against around 20 Chinese companies for selling critical equipment to Moscow, but Beijing officials said they are not providing lethal assistance and are operating within the law.
Stoltenberg made the remarks during a trip to Washington, DC, and while President Vladimir Putin traveled to North Korea to cement another crucial relationship and sign a mutual defense agreement with dictator Kim Jong Un. Analysts say the growing alliance between Moscow and Pyongyang could impact Russia’s relationship with China and upset the delicate balance Beijing has cultivated in the region. Russia and North Korea have pledged to come to each other’s aid in the event of any conflict.
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