The United States accuses Russia and China of “using Covid-19 to divide Europe and NATO”

“The United States already knows that some countries will use this pandemic as a way to invest in essential industries and infrastructure and have a lasting impact on (the country’s investment) security.” Mr. Esper replied to the newspaper. The Stampa on 4/5 when asked if Russia and China are trying to increase their influence in Italy with anti-Covid-19 help.

“Potential rivals will find a way to attract their interests and create divisions within NATO and the EU European Union,” said Mr Esper.

Mr. Esper’s comments came amid several US officials who accused China of being involved in the Covid-19 outbreak worldwide. United States Secretary of State Mike Pompeo said yesterday that Washington had “tremendous evidence” that the SARS-CoV-2 virus originated in a laboratory in China, claims that Beijing denied.

Esper said that both China and Russia are taking advantage of the urgency of the epidemic to increase the influence of the two countries in Europe. Both Moscow and Beijing support Italy by sending doctors, medical equipment and masks to Italy, the first European country seriously affected by the pandemic.

According to ReutersHowever, Russia’s support for Italy, including the deployment of military personnel, drew attention as Rome received limited aid from the EU. EU and NATO diplomats have previously suggested that this could be a geopolitical move by Russia.

On the other hand, Esper also accused Huawei and its 5G network of being an important example of China’s so-called “malicious activity”.

The United States recently warned many countries to “boycott” Chinese companies like Huawei and ZTE, accusing the two companies’ devices of being capable of posing security and surveillance risks. Both Huawei and ZTE have denied the accusations from the United States.

“Dependence on Chinese suppliers can make critical systems vulnerable to the threat of disruption, tampering, and espionage. This could pose a threat to our ability to communicate and share intelligence, “said Esper.

Your Majesty

According to Reuters