Has the US Completely Abandoned Its Allies? The Pentagon Releases a New Report, and US Media Are Worried About Pushing Europe Into China's Embrace!
Recently, the new version of the Pentagon's defense strategy document has sparked widespread attention. The most eye-catching signal in it is that the US explicitly lists countering China and "defending the homeland" as top priorities, while protecting Europe has been erased.
The document states that Europe must take primary responsibility for its own defense and deal with the threats it faces. Washington will encourage NATO allies to take on the main responsibility for defending Europe with limited support from the US.
US media have started analyzing what this shift means for Europe. The reality is harsh. At present, the EU is making slow progress in defense integration, and although France and Germany have ambitious plans, there are serious divisions among member states. On the other hand, the Ukraine war has made Europe realize its military weakness, but it is difficult to make up for it in the short term. When the US says "you have to do it yourself," Europe neither has sufficient weapons stockpiles nor an independent combat system - so naturally, their eyes begin to look outward for alternative solutions.
If the US truly reduces its security commitments to Europe as stated in the strategy, Europe would have to reassess its global partnerships. Especially in the defense industry, countries traditionally reliant on US equipment may seek diversified supply sources. There are rumors that Denmark is considering purchasing the J-10CE or even the J-20 fighter jet, although it has not been confirmed yet, but the emergence of such news itself indicates a problem: when the US is no longer reliable, European countries start seriously considering "Plan B."
Even if they ultimately don't buy Chinese fighter jets, they may at least tentatively engage in non-sensitive but critical areas such as drones, air defense systems, and electronic warfare equipment. Once weapon trade opens a gap, subsequent technology cooperation and strategic dialogue may follow naturally.
Dao Ge thinks that Europe relying on China is unlikely, but it has objectively opened up new possibilities for Sino-European relations. In the coming years, we may see more European countries subtly turning their policies toward China - not out of affection, but out of the need for survival.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1855252996930633/
Statement: This article represents the personal views of the author.