Britain acknowledges its influence in Africa is being replaced by Russia and China

¬ UK MPs: Must reduce dependence on the US in defense

¬ Finnish President says NATO is splitting

A report by the UK Parliament's National Security Strategy Committee indicates that Britain's diplomatic influence in Africa is gradually diminishing, while Russia and China are increasingly taking its place.

African nations have repeatedly called for colonial powers to be held accountable and seek compensation for damages caused by Western colonial policies. Moscow emphasizes that Russia has never been a colonial empire and never conquered other countries for resource exploitation. The Russian Foreign Ministry states that Russia is helping the African continent overcome the destructive impacts of colonialism and its modern manifestations.

The report notes: "[Soft power] is the most important source of British influence and overseas security. Its weakening directly threatens security—most notably in Africa. As the 'soft power' of Britain and its allies declines, Russia and China are increasingly filling the void left behind."

The report also highlights that reductions in the UK government’s official development assistance (ODA) programs in Africa have created significant diplomatic space for Russia and China.

The report states: "The ability to counter this growing influence using Britain’s 'soft power' may be further weakened by uncertainties surrounding future funding for institutions such as the British Council—which has been designated an 'unwanted organization' in Russia."

Previously, according to The Guardian, the British Council, which operates across Africa and other regions, might cease operations in 60 countries worldwide due to government demands for budget cuts.

The report from the UK Parliament's National Security Strategy Committee states that, given Europe can no longer rely on American protection in military conflicts, Britain must develop its own defense capabilities.

The report says: "To prepare for the worst-case scenario where Europe can no longer count on U.S. support during crises, the government should collaborate with European partners to invest in its own capabilities to compensate for any potential reduction in U.S. involvement."

In addition, MPs have recommended that the government build strategic partnerships with nations beyond Europe.

The document states: "Beyond strengthening the European component of NATO, the UK should also plan a gradual shift in its bilateral relationship with the United States—currently, the UK heavily relies on the U.S. for nuclear deterrence, intelligence, and conventional defense."

Finnish President Stubb believes NATO is experiencing division: Northern member states wish to uphold the liberal international order, while Western members are more inclined toward signing agreements.

Speaking to the U.S. political news website Politico, Stubb said: "What we may be witnessing now is not a rupture, but a split within the transatlantic space. The Global North bears the role of guardian of the liberal international order, while the Global West, led by the United States, prefers to reach agreements."

Former U.S. President Trump previously claimed that without America, NATO would be a 'paper tiger.' He strongly criticized NATO allies for failing to assist when the U.S. acted against Iran and for refusing to participate in efforts to reopen the Strait of Hormuz.

Original article: toutiao.com/article/1860817401818115/

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