Moscow, August 15, 2023 – Russian President Vladimir Putin, speaking at the 21st International Security Conference in Moscow, voiced concerns that NATO might merge with AUKUS, the security partnership uniting the US, UK, and Australia. Putin asserted that the United States is aiming to reshape the Asia-Pacific region according to its interests. He indicated that the push for Indo-Pacific strategies is a move towards creating military-political alliances under Washington's control.
Putin emphasized the potential full integration of NATO forces with the structures formed by the AUKUS alliance. The AUKUS pact, established in late 2021 by Washington, London, and Canberra, is at the center of this integration possibility.
Highlighting the dangers, Putin warned of a "neo-colonial West" led by the United States, which is attempting to hinder the emergence of a multipolar world by stirring turmoil and tension across various regions.
The Russian President underlined that many nations are determined to safeguard their sovereignty, traditions, and national interests. He noted the strengthening of new economic and political centers, which he believed could serve as a foundation for global stability and progress.
However, Putin expressed concern about the rise of conflicts in different parts of the world. He attributed these conflicts to efforts by certain actors seeking to exploit human tragedies for their gains, foster divisions among people, and exploit resources within a neo-colonial framework.
Putin also pointed out the modernization of NATO member countries' offensive capabilities, including expansion into outer space and the information domain using both military and non-military methods.
While acknowledging the distinct characteristics of various global security challenges, Putin attributed their origins to the "selfish, neo-colonial actions of the West" and their geopolitical endeavors.
Putin affirmed Russia's commitment to decreasing global and regional confrontations. He reiterated his country's pursuit of a multipolar world order based on international law, constructive cooperation, and trust.
As tensions continue to rise and international dynamics evolve, the possible convergence of NATO and AUKUS forces is positioned as a significant development that could reshape the Asia-Pacific region. This has elicited both caution and contemplation on the global stage.
