On June 30, 2023, Army Gen. Mark A. Milley, the chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, addressed the importance of the international rules-based order and the strategy of deterrence at the National Press Club. He emphasized that these principles are not abstract concepts but the foundation for global peace, deserving of staunch defense.
During the Newsmakers Lunch, Gen. Milley also touched upon the latest reports from Ukraine, highlighting the significance of the rules-based international order in preventing another devastating global conflict. He recalled a poignant conversation with a veteran of the 82nd Airborne Division, who had parachuted into Normandy during D-Day, and how that soldier stressed the vital need to prevent such a catastrophe from happening again.
The rules-based international order, established after World War II, has contributed to almost 80 years of peace. However, it is currently facing considerable challenges, particularly due to Russia’s illegal invasion of Ukraine. Despite this, nations worldwide have rallied to support Ukraine and uphold the rules-based order.
Gen. Milley also underscored the rising global influence of China, whose rapid economic growth has been accompanied by the strengthening of its military capabilities. China aims to become the dominant power in Asia and surpass the United States in military strength by mid-century, making the United States-China relationship pivotal to shaping the geostrategic history of this century.
He also highlighted the revolutionary impact of rapidly advancing technology on the character of war. Advanced surveillance capabilities, robotics, artificial intelligence, and quantum computing are reshaping military operations and tactics. The battlefield of the future will witness increased use of unmanned vehicles and complex data processing, fundamentally changing the nature of warfare.
However, Gen. Milley asserted that these advancements are primarily for deterrence rather than aggression. By maintaining overwhelming military superiority, the United States aims to deter large-scale conflicts and uphold the peace established in 1945. Deterrence, backed by visible military power, can prevent the recurrence of global conflict and honor the sacrifices of past generations.
In conclusion, Gen. Milley stressed that defending the rules-based international order and maintaining a robust deterrence posture are essential to preserving peace in this new era, characterized by ever-evolving technology and geopolitics. The commitment to upholding these principles will ensure a more secure and peaceful world for future generations.