The European Parliament elections illustrated that right-wing parties are gaining more traction voters on the other side of the Atlantic, a trend borne out by the first round of France’s snap election on Sunday. This trend could decisively impact the tragic war unfolding in Ukraine. However, the ebb and flow of European politics may also have reverberations in the Asia-Pacific, as well.
French President Emanuel Macron was likely fatigued at the Normandy commemoration because he had just been on the other side of the planet in the South Pacific, attempting to put out the blazing fire in the French territory of New Caledonia.
It was only a few years ago, and with considerable fanfare, that Paris announced its own “Indo-Pacific Strategy.” This is part of a larger trend of NATO governments seeking a new role for the alliance in stabilizing volatile situations in East Asia.
A new “incident” flared on June 11 when a Dutch frigate on its way to Japan encountered Chinese fighter jets operating in an “unsafe” manner. In response, a Chinese Defense Ministry spokesman remonstrated: “We strongly deplore the heinous nature of the Dutch side’s words and deeds…” Westerners may have long forgotten the Sino-Dutch War over Taiwan in the mid 17th century, but it seems likely Beijing has not.
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