US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Asian allies to increase military spending to counter China's growing influence during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore on May 30, 2026. He emphasized the need for stronger, self-reliant allies to maintain regional stability and deter hegemony. Hegseth also highlighted the US's $1.5 trillion defense budget commitment while stressing the importance of a balanced approach to avoid unnecessary confrontation.
Hegseth acknowledged improved US-China relations, citing increased military-to-military contacts. However, he reiterated concerns over China's military buildup, stating that no state, including China, should impose hegemony in the region. He praised allies like the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia, and Singapore for their defense contributions and called on Europe to share more of the security burden.
The US seeks a 'favorable but durable balance of power' in the Asia-Pacific, with Hegseth emphasizing that America remains a Pacific nation committed to regional stability. He also addressed concerns about US commitment to Asia, denying that global obligations like the Iran war would divert attention from the region.