At a significant international security meeting on Saturday, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered a sobering warning, describing China’s military threat as “real and imminent” and encouraging Indo-Pacific countries to increase their defence efforts in response to Beijing’s growing pressure.
Hegseth, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, said that China was actively planning an invasion of Taiwan and threatening international security by leveraging its expanding might in far-flung areas like the South China Sea and Latin America. Hegseth said that China’s army was practicing for the real thing. We won’t sugarcoat the fact that China is a significant danger. And that may happen soon.
China’s delegation sharply criticised the comments. According to Rear Adm. Hu Gangfeng, the remarks were made with the intention of “provoking trouble, inciting division, and stirring up confrontation” in the Asia-Pacific area. He condemned them as “groundless accusations.”
Citing Beijing’s recent military drills that mimic blockades surrounding the island, Hegseth emphasised that the US is still committed to protecting Taiwan. He characterised the Chinese military buildup as “not just aspirational,” but rather as unmistakable proof of ongoing invasion preparation.
Along with warning of China’s aspirations for the Panama Canal and key infrastructure in Latin America, he also criticised China’s forceful actions in the South China Sea.
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