Hegseth to Pitch U.S. as Stronger Indo-Pacific Ally Than China at Shangri-La Dialogue

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth will seek to reassure Asian allies of America’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific region and position the U.S. as a more reliable partner than China during his appearance at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore this weekend. The regional security forum runs from May 31 to June 1, with defense ministers and global security leaders expected to attend.

This marks Hegseth’s first major international speech since becoming defense secretary. He’s expected to outline U.S. Indo-Pacific defense priorities and contrast them with China’s actions. His remarks come amid growing skepticism over the Trump administration’s reliability, especially following controversial policies and global tensions.

A senior U.S. official said Hegseth aims to use the absence of Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun to press the case for American leadership. However, Hegseth's hardline domestic agenda and recent tensions with European allies have drawn criticism. He previously warned Europe against treating the U.S. like a "sucker" and has reshaped the Pentagon rapidly, replacing top brass and advancing Trump’s security vision.

Despite concerns, Hegseth’s March visit to the Philippines and Japan was seen as a return to traditional alliance-building. Ely Ratner, former Pentagon China policy chief, noted that Asian allies are watching to see which version of Hegseth will appear—one committed to partnerships or one echoing Trump’s combative tone.

His attendance is shadowed by controversy, including sharing sensitive military details and facing scrutiny over his qualifications. Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth criticized his credibility, stating he lacks the ability to reassure allies effectively.

Still, analysts suggest Hegseth may find a more receptive audience in Asia than in Europe, especially with nations like the Philippines seeking stronger U.S. ties amid China’s regional assertiveness.