MUNICH – Dr. Evelyn Farkas, Executive Director of the McCain Institute, underscored the critical importance of transatlantic alliances and the need for a unified response to both Russia’s ongoing war in Ukraine and China’s growing global influence during discussions at the Munich Security Conference this weekend.
Farkas, a former Deputy Assistant Secretary of Defense for Russia, Ukraine, and Eurasia, articulated her concerns in a conversation with Suzanne Kelly, CEO and Publisher of The Cipher Brief, emphasizing that the strength of U.S. Alliances is paramount to maintaining global security and democratic values. According to Farkas, the defining issue at the conference was whether the U.S. Remains committed to its allies.
The discussion took place against a backdrop of continued Russian attacks on European territory, prompting calls for increased European defense spending. Farkas echoed a sentiment similar to that expressed by former Secretary of Defense Robert Gates, urging European nations to shoulder a greater share of the collective defense burden. She stressed that maintaining the alliance is not merely a matter of geopolitical strategy, but is fundamentally in the U.S. Interest, safeguarding its way of life, democracy, security, and economic prosperity.
Farkas noted a growing disconnect between working-level cooperation among allies and a rising distrust of the United States at higher political levels. She attributed this to what she described as a sometimes “hostile” rhetorical approach from the current U.S. Administration towards its allies, fostering uncertainty about the reliability of American commitments.
Regarding the war in Ukraine, Farkas asserted that Ukraine has already achieved strategic victory, but the timing and cost of that victory remain uncertain. She emphasized the need for continued international support, including increased sanctions against Russia and, crucially, against China for enabling Russia’s war effort through the provision of both oil and dual-use technologies.
Farkas expressed concern over Europe’s approach to China, contrasting it with Japan’s more assertive stance. While acknowledging European leaders’ willingness to engage with Beijing, she cautioned against complacency, warning that China poses a significant economic and political threat and does not share democratic values. “China will eat their lunch in a minute,” she stated, emphasizing the potential for exploitation.
Looking ahead, Farkas identified two critical priorities: ensuring Ukraine’s victory and sovereignty, and deterring China’s increasingly assertive behavior. She stressed the importance of conveying a clear message to both the Russian elite and the Russian population that a military victory in Ukraine is unattainable.
The McCain Institute, under Farkas’s leadership, has been actively involved in strengthening democratic alliances and confronting authoritarian threats, as highlighted by her moderation of a panel on political courage at the Munich Security Conference, featuring U.S. Representative Mike Turner and Kyiv Mayor Vitali Klitschko.