US Defense Secretary Warns of China's Military Expansion at Shangri-La Dialogue

United States Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth spoke at the Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore. During his address, he highlighted concerns over China's rapid military expansion in the region. Hegseth encouraged US allies in Asia to increase their defense budgets to reach 3.5 percent of their gross domestic product.

The defense secretary also outlined plans for significant US investment in military capabilities. He said the United States will commit 1.5 trillion dollars to its own defense programs. Hegseth described recent improvements in military contacts between the United States and China, noting that relations are better than in past years.

Turning to other international issues, Hegseth issued a warning to Iran regarding its nuclear activities. He stated that the United States is prepared to resume attacks against Iran should diplomatic efforts fail. According to Hegseth, President Donald Trump is pursuing an agreement aimed at preventing Iran from developing nuclear weapons.

On the matter of Taiwan, the defense secretary clarified that decisions about arms sales are the responsibility of the US president. He emphasized that the policy on this issue remains unchanged.