Mattis blasts Putin for trying to 'shatter' NATO
US Defense Secretary Jim Mattis assailed Russian President Vladimir Putin on 15 June, accusing him of attacking western democracy and trying to break up NATO.
Mattis's remarks came just hours after US President Donald Trump repeated his assertion that Russia should be invited back into the G7 group of industrialised nations, from which it was kicked out for annexing Crimea in 2014, an event he blamed on his predecessor Barack Obama.
Mattis said at a US Naval War College graduation ceremony in Rhode Island: ‘For the first time since World War II, Russia has been the nation that has redrawn international borders by force of arms in Georgia and Ukraine, while pursuing veto authority over their neighbours' diplomatic, economic and security decisions.
‘Putin seeks to shatter NATO. He aims to diminish the appeal of the western democratic model and attempts to undermine America's moral authority.’
The Pentagon chief added that Putin's actions were designed not to directly challenge America's military prowess, but rather ‘to undercut and compromise our belief in our ideals.’
Earlier on 15 June, Trump said Russia should be invited back to the negotiating table with other industrialised countries.
Trump told reporters: ‘A few years ago, Putin was in what was called the G8. I think it's better to have Russia in, than to have Russia out. Because just like North Korea, just like somebody else, it's much better if we get along with them than if we don't. So it's possible.’
More from Defence Notes
-
RUSI deputy: UK needs longer procurement plans and improved awareness of US sift to Indo-Pacific
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October was the first by a Labour government in 14 years which has also launched a review into defence procurement programmes.
-
Australia outlines longer punch and brings local industry onboard
The Australian government has placed a focus on Guided Weapons and Explosive Ordnance (GWEO) which has included the purchase of additional long-range rocket systems and investments in local production of missiles.
-
UK boosts defence budget by 5.3%, but is this enough?
The UK budget announced in Parliament on 30 October is the first by a Labour government in 14 years. While it sees a boost in defence spending, this comes in the face of fiscal challenges and the effects of inflation.
-
UK makes big moves to fix “broken” defence procurement system ahead of major review
The changes are intended to meet greater need and deliver more value for money.
-
US companies invest in production capabilities to satisfy DoD’s hunger for cutting-edge capabilities
BAE Systems, Booz Allen Hamilton and Lockheed Martin have been betting on new facilities and innovative manufacturing technologies to speed up the development of new solutions.