U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has called on Asian allies to increase their defense spending in response to China’s rapid military expansion. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth highlighted the ‘rightful alarm’ over China’s growing military capabilities and activities.

Strengthening Regional Security

Hegseth emphasized the importance of stronger, self-reliant allies in maintaining regional stability. He warned against any single nation, including China, dominating the Pacific, which could disrupt the balance of power. The U.S. expects its allies to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, aligning with its own $1.5 trillion military investment.

The Defense Secretary assured that the goal is stability, not escalation, and that the U.S. offers disciplined strength and steady resolve. He noted improved military-to-military communications with China, which have become more frequent, contributing to better relations.

Shared Responsibility

Hegseth reiterated President Donald Trump’s stance that allies must share the burden of defense spending. He stated that the era of the U.S. subsidizing the defense of wealthy nations is over, calling for partners rather than protectorates. ‘We need partners, not protectorates,’ Hegseth said, stressing the importance of shared responsibility in alliances.

Original reporting: Appleton, WI News Feed (HLL/CB) — read the source article.