A former U.S. Army General warns that war with China could occur within 15 years, sparking fears over US military readiness. Express reports:
Retired Lieutenant General Ben Hodges, who was the commander of US forces in Europe for 15 years, has warned tensions could escalate between Beijing and Washington.
His fears come after the two nations dealt one another a series of trade tariffs on exports goods and a “near miss” in the South China Sea between a US Navy Destroyer and a Chinese Warship close to the disputed Gaven and Johnson Reegs in the Spratly Islands.
In light of recent trade tensions, and the US focus on protecting its interests in the Pacific, General Hodges said that Europe must do more to see of a resurgent Russia, by strengthening its own military defences.
Speaking at the Warsaw Security Forum, a two-day event featuring military leaders and political experts from across Europe, LT General Hodges said: “The United States needs a very strong European pillar.
This is a serious claim, and the Department of Defense should do all in its power to build up American strength to prevent such a conflict from occurring in the first place.
General Hodges is just seeking his “15 minutes of fame” by predicting war between the U.S. & China. The Chinese are ‘pragmatists’ in EVERYTHING they do. They have had a trade advantage for decades. They will fight, tooth & nail, at EVERY juncture in trade ‘adjustments’ that Trump can make. WAR? Don’t be stupid! As long as the U.S. has a strong military force and is willing to use it, when challenged, there’s not ANY chance of China risking a loss of power by engaging in war. ONLY if they are in danger of financial collapse, will they contemplate War.