By Quinn Marschik
As the tragic war in Ukraine continues – a conflict Russian President Vladimir Putin ultimately chose, but influenced by multiple rounds of NATO expansion and moves to include Ukraine and Georgia – many are pondering how to deter potential Chinese aggression in the Indo-Pacific region.
But instead of deterring Beijing, increasing the pressure will likely cause China to double down on its national-security aims and increase the chance it will use force to accomplish them – meaning the United States could be more easily dragged into a deadly war. Not only is this against American interests, but attempting to securitize the Indo-Pacific region further with an “Asian NATO” won’t work and would be a waste of resources.
Avoiding a catastrophic war with China – one that could turn nuclear – is a vital American interest. An Indo-Pacific equivalent to the North Atlantic Treaty Organization would increase the chance of conflict.
This piece was originally published in Asia Times on March 15, 2022. Read more HERE.