In Singapore, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth issued a serious warning on May 31, 2025, stating that China is preparing to use military force to alter the balance of power in Asia. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a key defense forum, Hegseth urged Asian countries to increase their defense spending and strengthen cooperation with the US.
He described the threat from China as “imminent” and stressed the importance of allies acting quickly to deter potential conflicts, especially concerning Taiwan. The Pentagon chief highlighted the Indo-Pacific region as a top priority for America and vowed a continued US military presence to maintain regional stability.
Key Points from Hegseth’s Speech
- Urgency: Immediate action needed to counter China’s military ambitions.
- Increased Defense Spending: Asian nations should bolster their defense budgets.
- Strengthened Alliances: Greater collaboration between the US and regional partners.
- New Joint Defense Projects: Initiatives to counterbalance China’s growing influence.
This announcement marks a significant shift in the US government’s tone amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific region. Meanwhile, France’s President Emmanuel Macron called for an independent coalition between Europe and Asia to maintain strategic autonomy amid the ongoing US-China rivalry.
The global defense community is closely monitoring these developments as countries evaluate their military and diplomatic strategies in response to evolving geopolitical challenges.
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