Blinken: If Russia Behaves Aggressively Towards Us We Will Respond

Speaking to Italy's La Repubblica on a trip to the country, US Secretary of State Anthony Blinken speaks on a number of geopolitical issues including US-Russia and US-China relations.

• On Russia says that "If Russia continues to attack us or acts as it did with the Solar Winds attacks, infiltrate our elections and behave aggressively towards us, then we will respond." However, adds that the US "aspires to have more stable and profitable relations with Russia".
• On China, says that relations are "complex". Says that the US is not asking anyone to choose between good relations with the US or China, and that "...it is true that when we deal with China - as an opponent or as a partner - we will be much more effective if we act together."
• Blinken also praised the Italian gov't for its drafting of legislation that would stop 'unreliable vendors' operating in its 5G market. As with a number of other US allies, there has been pressure to stop using Chinese-made Huawei equipment in its 5G networks due to alleged security risks.