U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth has warned that China is preparing to use military power to disrupt the balance in Asia. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, he said China’s threat is “real and near.” He added that the United States will remain present in the region to deter any aggression.
Hegseth claimed that China is actively building its capability to launch an attack on Taiwan. He said Beijing is conducting “actual combat drills” and preparing for real military action. He also accused China of cyber attacks and harassment of neighboring countries, particularly in the South China Sea.
China has responded sharply through its embassy in Singapore, calling Hegseth’s remarks provocative and misleading. It accused Washington of spreading tension and profiting from the threat of war. China also claimed the U.S. aims to divide and destabilize the Asia-Pacific region.
The South China Sea remains a major flashpoint, with China claiming nearly all of it despite international court rulings. Several clashes between China and the Philippines have occurred in recent months. The issue is expected to be central in discussions at the security forum.
China sent a delegation led by Rear Admiral Hu Gangfeng instead of top defense officials to the forum. In response to Hegseth’s speech, the Chinese delegation warned against actions that create divisions and conflicts in the region, without naming the U.S. directly.
