Cao Yanzhong, a researcher at the Academy of Military Science of the People’s Liberation Army of the People’s Republic of China

Cao Yanzhong, a researcher at the Academy of Military Science of the People’s Liberation Army of the People’s Republic of China asked Lloyd Austin: “My question is: Is the U.S. planning to establish a NATO-like alliance system in the Asia-Pacific? NATO’s eastward expansion has led to the Ukraine crisis. What do you think would be the implications for the security and stability of that region if the U.S. strengthens its alliance system in the APAC?” Lloyd Austin answered: “I respectfully disagree with your point that NATO expansion caused the Ukrainian crisis. The Ukrainian crisis was caused by Mr. Putin’s decision to illegally invade his neighbor, who at the time had weaker military forces. As to whether we are trying to create a NATO in the Indo-Pacific, like-minded countries with similar values and a shared vision of a free and open Indo-Pacific are working together to achieve that vision. This is a good thing. And we will continue to do similar things going forward.” Source: Russian Head