US Defence secretary Pete Hegseth warned that the threat from China is “real and potentially imminent” during his speech at the Shangri-La Dialogue, Asia’s premier defence forum.
Speaking for the first time at the event, Hegseth emphasised the Indo-Pacific as a priority for the US President Donald Trump administration, cautioning that a Chinese attempt to conquer Taiwan would have “devastating consequences” for the region and the world. He echoed Trump’s stance that China would not invade Taiwan during his tenure.
Hegseth urged Indo-Pacific allies to increase defence spending, citing the North Atlantic Treaty Organisation commitment to 5% of gross domestic product (GDP) as an example.
“It doesn’t make sense for European allies to spend more while Asian allies spend less in the face of a formidable threat,” he said, also referencing North Korea.
This call, however, drew criticism from US Senator Tammy Duckworth, who described it as “patronising” to Indo-Pacific partners, despite noting Hegseth’s commitment to the region.
China’s absence was notable, with Defence Minister Dong Jun skipping the forum, sending only an academic delegation. A recent study by the International Institute for Strategic Studies highlighted a spike in Asian defence spending, though the region’s average remains at 1.5% of GDP.
Hegseth suggested Europe focus on its own security, allowing the United States to prioritise the Indo-Pacific alongside regional allies. His remarks underscore rising tensions and the push for stronger regional defence cooperation. — May 31, 2025
Main photo credit: Reuters
