Former US National Security Adviser John Bolton has issued a stark warning about the current state of global security, arguing that the world is entering one of its most dangerous periods since the end of the Cold War.
Speaking at an international security forum, Bolton highlighted the overlapping crises of Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, escalating tensions in the South China Sea and the growing influence of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and Africa.
He criticised what he described as Western complacency, urging the United States and its allies in Europe and Asia to adopt stronger deterrence measures, including increased defense spending and more robust military deployments.
Bolton singled out NATO as a cornerstone of stability, but warned that internal divisions and wavering political commitments could weaken the alliance at a critical time.
He also stressed the need for Washington to strengthen ties with allies such as Japan, South Korea and Australia in order to counterbalance China’s rising assertiveness.
Domestically, Bolton expressed concern that political polarisation in the US could undermine its ability to lead globally, warning that adversaries may exploit perceived weakness.
His remarks come amid a heated US election cycle, where foreign policy has once again become a defining issue.
Critics argue that Bolton’s hawkish worldview risks further escalation and overlooks opportunities for diplomacy, but supporters insist his warnings should be heeded given his decades of experience in government.
Whether or not his calls for action are followed, Bolton’s comments underscore a growing consensus among analysts that the coming years may be defined by turbulence, competition and the urgent need for renewed international coordination.
Speaking at an international security forum, Bolton highlighted the overlapping crises of Russia’s ongoing aggression in Ukraine, escalating tensions in the South China Sea and the growing influence of authoritarian regimes in the Middle East and Africa.
He criticised what he described as Western complacency, urging the United States and its allies in Europe and Asia to adopt stronger deterrence measures, including increased defense spending and more robust military deployments.
Bolton singled out NATO as a cornerstone of stability, but warned that internal divisions and wavering political commitments could weaken the alliance at a critical time.
He also stressed the need for Washington to strengthen ties with allies such as Japan, South Korea and Australia in order to counterbalance China’s rising assertiveness.
Domestically, Bolton expressed concern that political polarisation in the US could undermine its ability to lead globally, warning that adversaries may exploit perceived weakness.
His remarks come amid a heated US election cycle, where foreign policy has once again become a defining issue.
Critics argue that Bolton’s hawkish worldview risks further escalation and overlooks opportunities for diplomacy, but supporters insist his warnings should be heeded given his decades of experience in government.
Whether or not his calls for action are followed, Bolton’s comments underscore a growing consensus among analysts that the coming years may be defined by turbulence, competition and the urgent need for renewed international coordination.
