Ron DeSantis says China creates conflict by propping up Russia and Iran

In a foreign policy address, Florida Governor Ron DeSantis highlighted the challenges posed by China, describing it as a 'formidable threat' to the United States. He accused Beijing of contributing to global instability through its economic ties with Russia and Iran. DeSantis linked China to the ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Israel-Gaza, stating that the Chinese Communist Party is financially supporting both Iran and Russia. He pointed out that China is buying large quantities of Iranian oil on the black market, thereby enriching Iran, and Russia is selling China gas and other commodities, bolstering Russia's war capabilities. DeSantis warned that these conflicts could ultimately harm US interests and benefit China.

DeSantis's remarks were dominated by the US response to China. He stated that if elected, he would reorient US policy to prioritize the Indo-Pacific region. He called for 'hard power' to deter China from attacking Taiwan and vowed to build up the US Navy to 355 ships by the end of his first term, with the aim of 385 ships by the end of a second term and a pathway to a 600-ship fleet within the next 20 years. He also proposed reforming export controls to prevent China from obtaining emerging technologies and working with allies to build supply chains to avoid reliance on Chinese markets for the critical natural resources needed for hi-tech manufacturing.

DeSantis also addressed his competition with former United Nations ambassador Nikki Haley for the Republican presidential nomination. Haley, who is seen as one of the most experienced Republican contenders on foreign policy matters, has been gaining traction in the polls. DeSantis and Haley have clashed over President Biden's response to the deadly attack on Israel by Hamas, a group designated a terrorist organization by the US and European Union. DeSantis criticized Biden for empowering Iran with sanctions relief, which he believes fueled the attacks by Hamas on Israel, and for not doing enough to deter Russian aggression against Ukraine.