NZ election: Winston Peters defends realism in foreign policy
Peters said the approach left the next government more choices, but the analysis is sceptical of that claim.
Foreign Minister Winston Peters says the government has faced the worst international conditions since 1945. Peters said the government chose quiet diplomacy and realism, which means accepting the world as it is.
Peters claimed this approach has left the next government with more choices and more agency. An analysis argues today's rivalries are not comparable to the Cold War, when the world came close to nuclear war at least three times.
The shift from rules to power is largely limited to the US, Russia and China and their close allies. The analysis says New Zealand has had little to say about the Trump administration's disregard for international law.
The analysis also notes New Zealand has continued to deepen military ties with the US.
- 2026 general election
- Election year
- Winston Peters
- Foreign Minister
Why it mattersThe next government will decide whether New Zealand keeps this quiet approach or changes course.
AustraliaNo direct Australian effect yet, but a new New Zealand government could change its military ties with the United States.
✓ Claims checked; 1 flagged for review. checked 2 h ago
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