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Hegseth Signals Shift in Defense Priorities Toward Asia, Tensions With NATO Allies

Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth delivered remarks at the Shangri-La Dialogue Defense Summit in Singapore, signaling a recalibration of U.S. security strategy. His speech elevated the Pacific region while creating friction with longstanding European partners. Hegseth characterized U.S.-China relations as stabilized and praised Asian allies for their burden-sharing commitments. His comments critical of NATO members reflect growing disagreement over defense spending. The defense chief stressed that Asian partners must remain resolute against Chinese hegemonic ambitions in the region. The remarks underscored deepening divisions within the Western alliance, with Washington increasingly focused on Indo-Pacific security rather than European defense challenges.