From the Middle East to the South China Sea: NZ's new government inherits a defence dilemma.

New Zealand's new government is facing a defense dilemma as it inherits a stormy geopolitical climate. The country is not neutral on the war in Ukraine and has provided assistance to Ukraine, but the situation is deteriorating with Russia's military counterpunch and fading external support. New Zealand is also concerned about China's tactics in the South China Sea and supports the ruling affirming Philippine claims to its territories. The widening disaster in Israel and Gaza is another issue that New Zealand is monitoring, while also focusing on protecting global waterways. To meet these challenges, New Zealand may need to increase defense spending and focus on inter-operability with Australia. However, New Zealand can still maintain its nuclear-free policy and work for arms control while improving its self-defense capabilities. The country should approach each issue on its own merits and defend the values and agreements that underpin the United Nations and a rule-based international order. Following the US blindly is risky, and New Zealand must be better prepared militarily. [Extracted from the article]