President-elect Donald Trump choice for his national security advisor (NSA) is a man seen by many as strong anti-China voice and pro-India one.
Michael Waltz, a House representative from Florida and a colonel in the US Army National Guard, is co-chair of the House India caucus and has been a strong votary of the US-India strategic partnership. He is an advocate of the two nations having a formal security alliance.
Among the most strongly critical voices on China in the US Congress, Waltz had often highlighted the threat India faces from China, has also warned against the China-Pakistan axis as posing a threat to both the US and India.
He led a Congressional delegation to India last year and attended the Independence Day celebrations at Red Fort on August 15, 2023, with Prime Minister Narendra Modi even acknowledging the presence of his delegation during his speech.
Experts feel his appointment points to a strategic shift towards the Indo-Pacific and a signal to the US allies in the region like Japan, Australia, etc, that the new Administration understands the need to counter China’s ambitions.
However, Waltz’s appointment could lead to questions about the future of US relations with NATO and other allies. While he may be part of Donald Trump’s “America First” strategy, waltz’s hardline approach to China could lead to tensions with NATO. Especially since many NATO members and European allies of the US often view China through an economic lens.
Read with the possible appointment of Republican Senator Marco Rubio as Secretary of State, also known for his hawkish views, waltz’s appointment will certainly cause concerns among existing US allies.
