A NATO military official warned businesses on Monday to prepare for a potential wartime scenario, advising them to adjust production and distribution to avoid vulnerability to blackmail from Russia and China.

Dutch Admiral Rob Bauer, chair of NATO’s military committee, emphasized that businesses must ensure the delivery of critical goods and services, as the economy plays a crucial role in winning wars.

He highlighted the West’s reliance on China for rare earth materials and essential chemicals, warning that the Chinese government could use its power strategically, Fox News has reported.

Bauer’s remarks come amid escalating tensions between Ukraine and Russia, including Russia’s recent missile launch and North Korea’s involvement in the conflict.

Written by B.C. Begley