The article discusses how Russia's 2022 invasion of Ukraine has reshaped international relations, particularly between Europe and Asia:
INTERNATIONAL ALIGNMENT:
The war brought the EU and Poland closer to Asian democracies like Japan
Over 50 countries joined the Ramstein group to support Ukraine militarily
A clear connection emerged between security in Eastern Europe and East Asia
EU AND POLISH RESPONSE:
Poland plans to focus on security during its 2025 EU presidency
Poland will spend 4.7% of GDP on defense
The EU is shifting from viewing China as a partner to seeing it more as a rival
CHINA'S ROLE:
Provides political and economic support to Russia
Supplies dual-use items to Russia (though denied)
Views Russia as an ally in its rivalry with the US
Challenges the post-1945 international order alongside Russia
NATO AND DEFENSE:
By 2024, 20 of 32 NATO members reached the 2% GDP defense spending target
Europe is rebuilding its arms and munitions industry
Finland and Sweden joined NATO
Stronger security cooperation developed between Europe and Indo-Pacific nations (IP4, India, Philippines)
The article emphasizes that abandoning Ukraine could set a dangerous precedent for East Asian security, particularly regarding Taiwan and the South China Sea, and highlights the importance of maintaining the international law-based order established after World War II.