Pentagon chief sounds ‘alarm’ over China’s buildup, urges allies to boost defense spending

    Pentagon chief sounds ‘alarm’ over China’s buildup, urges allies to boost defense spending

    SINGAPORE — U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged Asian allies on Saturday to ramp up military spending to counter China’s growing power and prevent its dominance in the region, warning of “rightful alarm” over its rapid military buildup. Hegseth, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, Asia’s premier forum for defense leaders, militaries and diplomats,…

    Read More
    US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth (L) speaks with Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi during the 23rd Shangri-La Dialogue summit in Singapore on May 29, 2026. (Photo by JAM STA ROSA / AFP)

      Japan rejects ‘new militarism’, says China is rapidly arming | News

      Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi accuses China of lacking military transparency and stresses the importance of dialogue for regional stability. Published On 31 May 202631 May 2026 Japanese Defence Minister Shinjiro Koizumi has dismissed claims that Tokyo is pursuing “new militarism” and accused China of rapidly expanding its military with limited transparency. China continues to increase…

      Read More