U.S. Defense Chief Warns of Imminent China Threat, Urges Indo-Pacific Allies to Boost Spending

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth issued a stark warning at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, emphasizing the growing threat from China and urging Indo-Pacific allies to increase defense spending. Hegseth stated the risk from Beijing is “real and could be imminent,” particularly referencing China's escalating pressure on Taiwan. He warned that any Chinese attempt to seize Taiwan would have devastating global consequences.

Speaking at Asia’s top security forum, Hegseth reinforced the Trump administration’s focus on the Indo-Pacific. He criticized low regional defense expenditures, contrasting them with rising commitments in Europe, where NATO members—“even Germany”—are pledging up to 5% of GDP on defense. He urged Asian partners to match that effort in response to threats from both China and North Korea.

China has increased military exercises near Taiwan and continues to assert its claim over the island, which Taiwan firmly rejects. Hegseth noted that Beijing is credibly preparing for potential military action to shift the power balance in the region.

However, his push for higher military spending drew criticism. U.S. Senator Tammy Duckworth called his tone toward Indo-Pacific allies “patronizing,” despite acknowledging America’s commitment to the region.

According to a new report by the International Institute for Strategic Studies, defense spending in Asia remains around 1.5% of GDP, despite a rise in arms investment and domestic defense industry development.

Hegseth, a former media figure, also addressed themes like "restoring the warrior ethos" and clarified that the U.S. seeks strategic cooperation, not ideological imposition. His remarks come amid scrutiny over the U.S. military’s redeployment of air defense assets from Asia to the Middle East earlier this year.