In a significant address at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 31, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasized the pressing threat posed by China and urged allies in the Indo-Pacific region to enhance their defense spending. This marked Hegseth's inaugural appearance at Asia’s premier defense forum, where he reiterated the Trump administration's commitment to prioritizing the Indo-Pacific region.
During his remarks, Hegseth did not mince words regarding the risks associated with China’s ambitions. "There’s no reason to sugar coat it. The threat China poses is real, and it could be imminent," he stated, reflecting his strongest stance on the Communist nation since taking office in January. He articulated that any attempt by China to conquer Taiwan would lead to "devastating consequences" not only for the Indo-Pacific but also for global stability. Hegseth echoed President Trump’s sentiment that China would not invade Taiwan "on the president’s watch," highlighting the island's significance in the region's geopolitical landscape.
China has escalated its military and political pressure on Taiwan, conducting more intensive war games around the island as part of its ongoing campaign to assert its claims. The Taiwanese government, however, firmly rejects Beijing's sovereignty assertions, stating that only the island's citizens have the right to determine their future. "It has to be clear to all that Beijing is credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power in the Indo-Pacific," Hegseth added, underscoring the urgency of the situation.
Hegseth’s call for increased defense spending among allies is likely to raise eyebrows, especially given the sensitive nature of international defense relations. Despite this, experts suggest that Hegseth would encounter a relatively receptive audience at the Shangri-La Dialogue. Notably, China’s Defense Minister, Dong Jun, opted to skip the event, with Beijing only represented by an academic delegation.
In previous statements, Hegseth has criticized European allies for not investing sufficiently in their own defense. At a NATO press conference in February, he warned Europe against "treating America like a sucker." His comments resonate with French President Emmanuel Macron, who, during the Dialogue, agreed with Hegseth’s assertion that Europe needs to bolster its defense expenditure.
Hegseth pointed out the inconsistency in defense spending where NATO members are committing to allocate 5% of their GDP for defense, while many key allies in Asia are contributing less despite facing significant threats, including North Korea. Dutch Defense Minister Ruben Brekelmans acknowledged Hegseth’s recognition of European countries increasing their defense budgets, calling it a notable acknowledgment from the U.S. administration.
However, Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, co-leading a bipartisan delegation at the Shangri-La Dialogue, described Hegseth's comments as potentially "patronizing" towards Indo-Pacific allies. She noted that while it was positive for Hegseth to affirm U.S. commitment to the region, the tone could have been more constructive.
A recent study by the London-based International Institute for Strategic Studies revealed a significant increase in defense spending among Asian nations as they respond to a deteriorating security environment. Many nations are expanding their industrial partnerships and enhancing their own defense capabilities, even as average defense spending in Asia remains around 1.5% of GDP.
Hegseth suggested that European allies should concentrate their security efforts domestically, allowing the U.S. to focus on the challenges posed by China in the Indo-Pacific. "We would much prefer that the overwhelming balance of European investment be on that continent," he stated, reiterating the importance of mutual support among allies.
Some actions taken by the Trump administration in the Indo-Pacific have drawn scrutiny, including the recent repositioning of air defense systems from Asia to the Middle East amidst rising tensions with Iran. This operational shift involved extensive logistical efforts, raising questions about U.S. commitment to the Indo-Pacific.
As Hegseth addressed the international audience, he emphasized the need for collaboration without imposing U.S. political ideologies. "We respect you, your traditions, and your militaries. And we want to work with you where our shared interests align," he concluded, aiming to foster a cooperative defense framework in the Indo-Pacific region.
