The US defence chief is expected to outline Washington’s Indo-Pacific security policy at the forum
US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth aims to persuade Asian defense chiefs this weekend that the United States is a more reliable ally for the area compared to China, according to US officials. This comes amid ongoing doubts regarding the Trump administration’s dedication to the region.
During his initial months in position, Hegseth has concentrated extensively on domestic matters, opposing diversity, equity, and inclusion initiatives within the military, as well as criticizing media outlets. He is now set to deliver his first comprehensive speech.
Singapore
On Saturday regarding his vision for U.S. defense strategy in the Indo-Pacific region.
He will be speaking at the
Shangri-La Dialogue
Asia’s top security conference, taking place this year between May 31 and June 1, is set to welcome defence ministers, high-ranking military and security personnel, and diplomats from across the globe. On Friday, French President Emmanuel Macron will be delivering the main speech.
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A high-ranking U.S. defense official, who wished to remain anonymous, stated that Secretary Hegseth will be making the argument to America’s Asian partners regarding why the United States makes a superior ally compared to the CCP (Chinese Communist Party).
The official mentioned that Hegseth was presented with the chance to exploit Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun’s anticipated non-participation in the dialogue. This is because U.S. and Chinese representatives have historically engaged in intense confrontations during these meetings.
Hegseth’s address will be closely monitored as it follows the speech by the US President.
Donald Trump
has attacked traditional allies, most notably through tariff measures.
Hegseth has similarly upset allies in Europe. In February, during a press conference at NATO headquarters in Brussels, he cautioned Europe not to view America as a “sucker.”
A second high-ranking U.S. defense official stated, ‘There is definitely some uncertainty being voiced, and at times, it might be reasonable to describe it as worry,’ regarding the unease felt by America’s Asian allies.
General Dan Caine, who has been newly appointed as the US chairman of the Joint Chiefs of Staff, is likewise anticipated to be present at the dialogue.
Several initial actions taken by the Trump administration concerning the Indo-Pacific region have sparked concern. Earlier this year, the United States transferred anti-aircraft systems from Asia to the Middle East due to escalating tensions with Iran, a process that required 73 trips using C-17 transport planes.
But Hegseth
visited the Philippines
And during her visit to Japan in March, experts noted that the Secretary emphasized the traditionally significant role of alliances.
Ely Ratner, who held the position of the top Pentagon official for China during the Biden administration, mentioned that Asian allies were looking for a consistent approach from Hegseth.
The area will keenly observe if the US Secretary of Defense attending the Shangri-La Dialogue resembles the individual who visited the Philippines and Japan, or exhibits the tougher stance we have witnessed from the Trump administration in Europe, according to Ratner.
Hegseth, who previously hosted at Fox News, secured confirmation as defense secretary just barely back in January. Since then, he has swiftly taken steps to transform the department.
firing top generals
As he aims to put into action Trump’s national security plans, he collaborates with Admirals.
His leadership has faced significant examination following revelations that he disclosed confidential war strategies to Yemen’s Iran-backed Houthis on two occasions.
Signal group chats
Trump has remained loyal to him throughout the upheaval.
Greg Poling from the Center for Strategic and International Studies thinks Hegseth will probably find a welcoming crowd at the Shangri-La Dialogue.
“Asian allies, especially the Philippines, feel much more secure compared to our European counterparts, yet there will always be lingering doubts,” according to Poling.
Democratic Senator Tammy Duckworth, who is leading a bipartisan group at the Shangri-La Dialogue, stated that her objective was to assure Asian partners of America’s dedication. She added that this was something Hegseth could not convey effectively.
“His position was secured solely due to his sycophantic attitude towards President Trump and his favorable appearance on Fox News. Let’s not lose sight of the actual qualifications for the role of defense secretary,” Duckworth stated.
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The article initially appeared on the South China Morning Post (www.scmp.com), which serves as the premier source for news coverage of China and Asia.
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