Two significant military drills are going on in Europe and Australia.
Military maneuvers are taking place in Europe’s backyard. High-ranking officials from China and Belarus were monitoring a joint defense drill in Belarus. The drill kicked off last week and wrapped up on Friday. The action took place just miles away from the Polish border. It also marks the divide between the NATO military alliance and other countries.
In Australia, a large-scale military drill named “Pitch Black” is starting. This year’s is the largest in four decades. Twenties countries participate, including the United States, Canada, Germany, France, Japan, and South Korea. But as preparations commence, Indo-Pacific stability appears to be the top focus. The Philippines is joining the drill for the first time this year, as tensions between Manila and Beijing continue to escalate. Italy is also taking part for the first time, and is set to bring in its own aircraft carrier. After the drill, that carrier will sail to Japan.