while urging Asian nations to increase defense spending and collaborate with the United States to deter potential conflict.

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue—an annual high-level defense summit in Singapore—Hegseth emphasized that while the U.S. does not seek to "dominate or strangle China," it will not be pushed out of Asia or allow the intimidation of its allies.

Many countries in the region fear potential instability should China invade Taiwan, the self-governing island claimed by Beijing. China has not ruled out the use of force to assert its claim. As of now, Beijing has not publicly responded to Hegseth’s comments regarding Taiwan.

In his speech, Hegseth described China as a power striving to become “hegemonic,” asserting that it “hopes to dominate and control too many parts” of Asia. He also referenced China's ongoing disputes with several neighboring countries over competing territorial claims in the South China Sea.

Hegseth stated that Beijing is "credibly preparing to potentially use military force to alter the balance of power" in the region, referencing a 2027 deadline that, according to U.S. officials, President Xi Jinping has set for China's military to be capable of invading Taiwan. This date has been cited by U.S. generals for years, but has never been officially confirmed by Beijing.

“China is building the military needed to do it, training for it every day, and rehearsing for the real deal,” Hegseth said.

“Let me be clear: any attempt by Communist China to conquer Taiwan by force would result in devastating consequences for the Indo-Pacific and the world. There's no reason to sugarcoat it. The threat China poses is real—and it could be imminent. We hope not, but it certainly could be.” The Shangri-La Dialogue has traditionally served as a key platform for the U.S. and China to present their visions for regional security to Asian nations as both powers vie for influence. This year, the U.S. sent one of its largest delegations ever. In contrast, China sent a notably lower-level delegation and cancelled its scheduled speech on Sunday.  (BBC)