The Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore saw Hegseth underscoring that the US does not aspire to dominate China but aims to protect regional stability and its allies from China's aggressive military strategies.
**US Defense Chief Stresses Urgent Need for Asian Allies to Enhance Military Readiness Against China**
**US Defense Chief Stresses Urgent Need for Asian Allies to Enhance Military Readiness Against China**
In a recent address, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth highlighted the immediate threat posed by China to Taiwan and called for increased defense spending among Asian nations.
In a stark warning delivered at the Shangri-la Dialogue in Singapore, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth addressed the looming threat that China presents to Taiwan, characterizing it as "imminent." He stressed the importance of Asian nations bolstering their defense budgets and collaborating with the US to avoid potential conflict. Hegseth asserted that while the US does not aim to dominate or restrain China, it would not allow itself or its allies to be intimidated.
China, in turn, responded to Hegseth's remarks by branding the US as the leading destabilizing force in the region. The tensions stem from fears of instability should China choose to invade Taiwan, which it claims as its territory. Hegseth painted a picture of China aspiring to serve as a "hegemonic power," seeking control over large portions of Asia while preparing its military capabilities to achieve such dominance.
He noted a yet-unconfirmed deadline of 2027 projected by US officials for China’s military to become operationally ready for potential actions against Taiwan. "Any attempt by Communist China to conquer Taiwan by force would have catastrophic repercussions for the Indo-Pacific and beyond," Hegseth warned, stressing the urgent need for a united front among allies to deter such aggression.
The Chinese delegation's noticeably reduced presence at the dialogue and their decision to forego a planned speech highlighted tensions between the two nations. In contrast, the U.S. delegation was among its largest yet, showcasing its commitment to strengthening alliances across Asia amid rising concerns over Chinese military maneuvers.
During his speech, Hegseth emphasized that "deterrence does not come cheap," urging Asian nations to elevate their defense investments, mirroring European enhancements amidst the ongoing security challenges posed by China and North Korea.
Hegseth indicated that the US would work closely with partners to build military resilience in the Indo-Pacific, warning against China leveraging its economic ties to exert greater influence over regional defense policies. He highlighted the importance of collaboration to maintain balance and stability, counteracting China’s assertiveness in territorial disputes like those in the South China Sea.
As Hegseth's comments drew various reactions, some observers noted that while the call for increased spending aligns with the US's stance, compliance from Asian nations remains uncertain. Hegseth's vision for a cooperative yet cautious approach contrasts with a critical reception from certain US politicians who called for a more fundamental commitment to democratic values and human rights in foreign relations. Still, Hegseth's message resonated with several Asian leaders who express a desire for greater US presence amid China's aggressive posture.
China, in turn, responded to Hegseth's remarks by branding the US as the leading destabilizing force in the region. The tensions stem from fears of instability should China choose to invade Taiwan, which it claims as its territory. Hegseth painted a picture of China aspiring to serve as a "hegemonic power," seeking control over large portions of Asia while preparing its military capabilities to achieve such dominance.
He noted a yet-unconfirmed deadline of 2027 projected by US officials for China’s military to become operationally ready for potential actions against Taiwan. "Any attempt by Communist China to conquer Taiwan by force would have catastrophic repercussions for the Indo-Pacific and beyond," Hegseth warned, stressing the urgent need for a united front among allies to deter such aggression.
The Chinese delegation's noticeably reduced presence at the dialogue and their decision to forego a planned speech highlighted tensions between the two nations. In contrast, the U.S. delegation was among its largest yet, showcasing its commitment to strengthening alliances across Asia amid rising concerns over Chinese military maneuvers.
During his speech, Hegseth emphasized that "deterrence does not come cheap," urging Asian nations to elevate their defense investments, mirroring European enhancements amidst the ongoing security challenges posed by China and North Korea.
Hegseth indicated that the US would work closely with partners to build military resilience in the Indo-Pacific, warning against China leveraging its economic ties to exert greater influence over regional defense policies. He highlighted the importance of collaboration to maintain balance and stability, counteracting China’s assertiveness in territorial disputes like those in the South China Sea.
As Hegseth's comments drew various reactions, some observers noted that while the call for increased spending aligns with the US's stance, compliance from Asian nations remains uncertain. Hegseth's vision for a cooperative yet cautious approach contrasts with a critical reception from certain US politicians who called for a more fundamental commitment to democratic values and human rights in foreign relations. Still, Hegseth's message resonated with several Asian leaders who express a desire for greater US presence amid China's aggressive posture.
