A senior NATO military official on Monday urged businesses to prepare for a wartime scenario and adjust their production and distribution lines accordingly to reduce vulnerability to potential blackmail from countries like Russia and China.

“If we can ensure that all crucial services and goods can be delivered, regardless of the situation, then that is a key part of our deterrence,” remarked Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of NATO’s military committee, during an event hosted by the European Policy Centre think tank in Brussels.

He explained that deterrence extends beyond military capabilities, as all available resources could be utilized in times of war.

“We’re witnessing a growing number of sabotage acts, particularly concerning energy supply in Europe,” Bauer stated. “We believed we had a deal with Gazprom, but we were actually dealing with Mr. Putin. The same applies to Chinese-owned infrastructure and goods; our agreements are essentially with (Chinese President) Xi (Jinping).”

Bauer highlighted the West’s reliance on supplies from China, noting that 60% of all rare earth materials are produced there, and 90% are processed in China. He pointed out that essential chemical ingredients for sedatives, antibiotics, anti-inflammatories, and low blood pressure medications also originate from China.

“We are naive if we think the Communist Party will never use that influence. Business leaders in Europe and America must understand that their commercial decisions carry strategic implications for national security,” Bauer emphasized.

“Businesses need to be ready for a wartime scenario and adjust their production and distribution strategies accordingly. While the military may win battles, it is the economies that ultimately win wars.”