– The US will pivot away from Europe, and NATO countries must spend alot more – Rear Admiral ret. Mark Montgomery

In this conversation, i talk to retired Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery about the evolving geopolitical landscape, focusing on the alignment of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea, termed the 'Axis of Aggressors.' He emphasizes the implications for NATO and European defense, particularly in light of U.S. pivoting towards Asia, away from Europe. The discussion also covers Russia's new generation warfare tactics, the strategic importance of Norway, and the critical role of Taiwan in global semiconductor manufacturing. Montgomery highlights the need for increased European defense spending and the importance of maintaining a strong military presence in Europe to deter aggression from adversaries.About Mark Montgomery:Rear Admiral Mark Montgomery, U.S. Navy, retired. He commanded Carrier Strike Group 5 aboard the USS George Washington, and served as Director of Operations at U.S. Pacific Command. After the Navy he was Policy Director for the Senate Armed Services Committee under John McCain, then Executive Director of the Cyberspace Solarium Commission. Today he leads the Center on Cyber and Technology Innovation at the Foundation for Defense of Democracies, and remains one of the most influential voices in Washington on cyber, deterrence, and the growing alignment of China, Russia, Iran, and North Korea.Chapters00:00 The Axis of Aggressors: Understanding Global Alliances05:41 NATO's Future: The U.S. Pivot and European Defense12:14 Russia's New Generation Warfare: Threats and Strategies19:50 Norway's Strategic Importance: Defense and Military Readiness31:33 Taiwan's Critical Role: Semiconductor Manufacturing and Global Impact