US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has issued a stark warning regarding China’s intentions towards Taiwan, describing the situation as a significant threat to global peace and stability. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Hegseth asserted the necessity for allies and partners in the Asia-Pacific region to enhance their defence capabilities in response to what he termed an imminent danger posed by China.
Hegseth highlighted that the Chinese government, led by President Xi Jinping, is preparing its military for potential action against Taiwan by 2027. He noted that the People’s Liberation Army (PLA) conducts daily training exercises aimed at altering the power dynamics in the Indo-Pacific region. Emphasising the seriousness of the situation, he stated that the PLA is actively building the military infrastructure required for such an invasion.
In response to Hegseth’s remarks, China condemned the speech, labelling it as defamatory and filled with provocations aimed at creating division. The Chinese foreign ministry accused the US of ignoring peace efforts from regional countries.
Hegseth reiterated US President Donald Trump’s commitment to ensuring Taiwan does not fall under Chinese control, urging regional allies to unite against Beijing’s assertive actions, not only regarding Taiwan but also in the South China Sea, where China has aggressive territorial ambitions.
The Defence Secretary called for increased military spending among Asian nations, pointing to NATO allies who have raised their defence budgets significantly. He stressed that it is inconsistent for European countries to invest heavily in defence while key Asian allies spend less in the face of growing threats, particularly from China and North Korea.
While Hegseth clarified that the US seeks to avoid conflict with China, he asserted that the Trump administration would not tolerate aggressive behaviour from Beijing. He declared that the US would remain firmly committed to the region and would not allow its allies to be threatened or intimidated.
Hegseth’s comments come amid rising tensions between Washington and Beijing, exacerbated by economic disputes and a lack of high-level dialogue expected at this year’s Shangri-La Dialogue. Despite China sending a lower-level delegation, the spokesperson for the Chinese Ministry of Defence indicated an openness to discussions but did not commit to a meeting with the US delegation.
The Defence Secretary’s call for enhanced allied cooperation reflects a continuity in US policy towards countering Chinese influence, albeit with a more forceful tone under the Trump administration. Analysts have noted that US-led military exercises involving key allies in the region have remained strong, moving into 2025, indicating a sustained commitment to strength and solidarity against potential threats in the Asia-Pacific.