Pentagon Official Urges Asian Allies to Invest More in Defense to Deter Aggression

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Asian allies to boost military spending to counter China’s growing power and prevent it from dominating the region. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, he said a stronger, more self-reliant network of partners is essential to deter aggression and maintain the regional balance of power. Hegseth referenced “rightful alarm” about China’s historic military buildup, while stressing allies want stability, not escalation. He also reiterated the U.S. expectation that allies increase defense outlays toward a 3.5% of GDP target