NZ Defense Strategy Stuck on Autopilot as US Alliances Unravel

New Zealand's defense strategy appears to be stuck in autopilot mode as it continues to rely on the US for leadership, despite mounting evidence that the Trump administration is undermining the collective US/European defense security alliance.

The country has been preparing to spend billions of dollars on defense, including a purchase of new frigates due to be announced next year. However, this spending priority may not make sense given the lack of an imminent threat from China or anyone else and the increasing effectiveness of drone warfare.

Meanwhile, Trump's friendly overtures to North Korea have been warmly welcomed by Vladimir Putin, with analysts estimating that North Korea is providing Russia with 40% of its artillery capability in Ukraine. This has wider implications for Europe and Ukraine, where a regime backed by Pyongyang and Moscow continues to wage war.