Today's D Brief: $3B in more US aid to Ukraine; Stoltenberg's message for Sweden; China maintains pressure on Taiwan; Wargame brings bad news for Beijing; And a bit more.
Defense OneJUL 2023
The Spin
Anti-Russia narrative
Sweden's entry and participation in NATO are long overdue. The Swedish government has completed its due diligence and should be confident in its NATO membership following a long and arduous admissions process. This is vital in the face of Russian aggression — as shown by the brutality of the invasion of Ukraine. Sweden is absolutely correct to be re-evaluating its defensive posture.
Pro-Russia narrative
Sweden and Finland have unfortunately abandoned a long history of neutrality. By abandoning its relationship with Moscow and engaging in the West's "russophobia," Sweden is actually putting its citizens in more danger.
Metaculus Prediction
There is a 90% chance that Sweden will join NATO before 2024, according to the Metaculus prediction community.
