WASHINGTON (Sputnik) — In his Thursday confirmation hearing, General Joseph Dunford, the nominee to become the next Chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff (JCS), told senators that he considers Russia to be the greatest national security threat to the United States.
McCain said the JCS nominee made an understandable argument, but was likely referring to the “the long-term threat of Russian behavior,” as opposed to an imminent concern.
“I still think it is Iran, but I think it is a close call between Iran, Russia and ISIS [the Islamic State].”
The United States has repeatedly accused Russia of acting aggressively and violating international standards respecting neighboring countries' sovereignty.
Moscow has alleged US violations of international norms, including the invasion of countries like Iraq and Libya. Moreover, Russian officials have said that US deploying heavy weapons to Eastern Europe is an aggressive step that increases tensions and can destabilize the region.
Dunford was nominated by President Barack Obama in May 2015 to become his top military advisor. The full US Senate will likely consider Dunford’s nomination before they leave Washington, DC for the August congressional recess.