Adnkronos Rome, June 23 (Adnkronos) – "There is no NATO without the United States. This is not a boast, it is a geopolitical fact. But if NATO is to survive and prosper in a new era of competition between great powers, European leaders must begin to act as partners, not as employees". This was stated in an interview with Start Magazine to be published in July by the president of the Heritage Foundation Kevin David Roberts, explaining that "defense is not a luxury.
It is a necessity. For too long, the US taxpayer has shouldered an unsustainable burden while nations like Spain barely manage to spend one percent of GDP on defense. This is unacceptable. If Europe wants to be taken seriously – by America and by its adversaries – it must start investing seriously in its own defense. I am not talking about just reaching 2 percent. I am talking about real commitments, 5 percent of GDP or more. It is time for a revolution in the transatlantic alliance. American strength will remain essential, but America First means demanding accountability and reciprocity from our allies. NATO can work, but only if everyone does their part."
"America's NATO allies need to wake up and show some real fortitude," says the head of the think tank close to American conservatives. "This is not the time for complacency or appeasement. Russia is a serious threat, but China is the adversary that will define the 21st century. The challenge is clear: our European allies cannot afford to take a vacation from history. Too many European nations are turning a blind eye to Beijing's growing influence or, worse still, opening their doors to China in exchange for short-term trade gains. This is self-destructive. In the face of an increasingly aggressive China, the transatlantic alliance must be strong, united and have a clear vision. Europe must understand that the threat posed by Beijing is as real as that of Moscow and we cannot afford to ignore it."
"It is time to stop pretending that trade interests with China trump the West's long-term strategic security," Roberts continued. "Only then can we ensure that the Atlantic Alliance remains a powerhouse for freedom and prosperity." On the Middle East, Roberts gave his own reading of what is happening and could happen: "From Gaza to Iran, the Middle East is on the brink of chaos that could produce new waves of terrorism, destabilize the region, and threaten American security. However, by acting prudently but decisively, the United States has an opportunity to confront our enemies in the region and avoid a broader conflict, which would be costly for all sides. Our enemies are emboldened by weakness, especially the weakness they have seen in the Biden administration. President Trump is restoring peace through strength."