Senators On Both Sides Agree: NATO Expansion Into Asia Inevitable Amid Growing Concerns Over China's Influence

The senators, who consider each other close friends, made their remarks during appearances on NBC's "Meet the Press" on Sunday. When asked by host Chuck Todd whether they believed NATO expansion into Asia was "inevitable" in the next one to two decades, both senators agreed.

Sullivan, a member of the Senate Armed Services Committee and a military veteran who attended the NATO summit in Vilnius, Lithuania, responded, "Oh, I think it is. And I think it was a positive summit. I think there was a lot of progress." He noted that China was mentioned multiple times in the NATO communique, a significant increase from last year. Sullivan highlighted the presence of leaders from Japan, Australia, and South Korea at the summit as a strong signal of NATO's concern about China.

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During the summit, Sullivan emphasized to all leaders, including President Biden and National Security Adviser Jake Sullivan, the importance of meeting the 2% of GDP obligation for defense spending. He praised Sweden for meeting this commitment and criticized other NATO members, particularly Canada, for contributing barely above 1%. Sullivan argued that the sustainability of NATO is undermined when only a few members meet their defense spending obligations, which could impact support for Ukraine and the alliance itself.

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Duckworth echoed Sullivan's views on NATO expansion into Asia, stating, "I think it is. I agree with my friend. And frankly, you know, it already has started to do that with our successful AUKUS agreement between the U.K., Australia, and the United States." She emphasized that Asian allies are closely watching the situation in Ukraine and recognizing the need for greater participation in NATO. Duckworth also highlighted how Vladimir Putin's actions have united countries like Japan, South Korea, Taiwan, and ASEAN nations against Russia's actions in Ukraine.

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July 17, 2023

Chuck Todd then turned the conversation to the blockade led by Senator Tommy Tuberville, a Republican from Alabama, who is holding back military nominations and promotions to pressure the Pentagon to change its policy on funding abortions and travel reimbursements for military members seeking abortions. Sullivan defended Tuberville, arguing that the Biden administration's defense budget cuts pose a greater national security risk. He expressed concern that the budget for the next year would take defense spending below 3% of GDP, the lowest level in almost 70 years.

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In contrast, Duckworth condemned Tuberville's actions, stating that jeopardizing national security by injecting politics into military appointments is distressing. She emphasized the importance of allowing military leaders to take their positions and perform their duties without interference.