US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a serious warning about China’s military actions. On Saturday, he spoke at the Shangri-La Dialogue, a major security event in Singapore. He said China is “credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific.”
China’s Threat Could Be Imminent
According to Hegseth, the danger from China is growing quickly. He said, “The threat China poses is real and it could be imminent.” Moreover, he warned that Beijing wants to “dominate and control” the entire Asian region.
Furthermore, he claimed that China is building the military strength needed to invade Taiwan. He added that Chinese forces are training every day and “rehearsing for the real deal.”
US Strengthens Ties With Regional Allies
Meanwhile, Hegseth emphasized that the United States is working closely with its allies. He highlighted stronger defense cooperation with Japan and the Philippines. In addition, he mentioned deeper military ties with India.
As a result, he said the US is “reorienting toward deterring aggression by communist China.”
Hegseth Calls for Increased Defense Spending
In his speech, Hegseth urged Asian countries to increase their defense budgets. He encouraged them to follow the example of NATO allies. He said, “It’s hard to believe a little bit… that I’m saying this, but thanks to President Trump, Asian allies should look to countries in Europe for a newfound example.”
Specifically, he pointed to nations like Germany, which are moving toward President Trump’s goal of spending 5% of their GDP on defense.
Overall, Hegseth stressed that protecting peace in the region requires real investment. “Deterrence doesn’t come on the cheap,” he said.