EU warns China's military actions threaten European security

The European Union released a new defence white paper warning that China's military actions could create major disruptions for Europe. The document, titled "White Paper for European Defence – Readiness 2030," was published on Wednesday. The EU acknowledges an "acute and growing threat" from various global issues, including the ongoing war in Ukraine. The paper states that this conflict is crucial for Europe’s future and highlights the need for member states to strengthen their defenses. It identifies multiple threats. These include strategic competitions in regions from the Arctic to the Baltic, the Middle East, and North Africa. Other challenges encompass rapid technological changes, migration issues, and climate change. The EU's white paper also emphasizes the seriousness of China's rising military presence in the Indo-Pacific. It notes that China's approach to governance contrasts sharply with European ideals. Beijing is accused of seeking to gain dominance through trade and technology. The report mentions that authoritarian states like China aim to exert control over the economy and society. Additionally, it highlights a shift in focus from traditional allies, like the United States, moving away from Europe towards other regions. China's military spending is now the second highest globally. This growth is said to significantly change the military balance in the Indo-Pacific and increase pressure on Taiwan through various means of coercion.