Nat Sec Spox Kirby Warns Of Chinese Collaboration With Russia

White House National Security Spox John Kirby has provided a preview of President Joe Biden's trip to Europe, which kicks off in Germany on Saturday, and given reporters an overview of the national security environment ahead of the trip.

• Kirby says that the trip is designed to serve three purposes: Show "unwavering support" for Ukraine and hold Russia accountable, manage "disruptions to the global economy including energy and food prices," and chart "an affirmative vision for the world" in which democracies can "win over autocratic and corrupt visions."
• On the Russian blockade of Ukrainian grain, Kirby says: "Putin is, no kidding, weaponising food."
• Kirby says China's increase of Russian oil purchases is "another example of a growing collaboration between China and Russia, regarding Ukraine."
• Kirby however stops short of criticising India for the increasing Russian energy purchases, demonstrating the strong diplomatic hand currently held by Delhi.
• Kirby says "India is a key strategic partner in the Indo-Pacific," he continues "we'll let Indian leaders speak to their economic policies... we value this bilateral relationship with India... but we continue to want as much pressure put internationally on Russia as possible."