US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth has shifted the tone on Taiwan’s security, warning that a Chinese invasion could be imminent and would lead to war with America. In a dramatic statement, Hegseth said China is seeking “hegemonic power” in Asia, but vowed that the US will not let its allies and partners be intimidated. The comments appear aimed at deterring China while reassuring American friends in Asia amid President Donald Trump’s “America First” foreign policy.
However, this new stance raises questions about Hegseth’s assessment of Chinese intentions and the credibility of America’s tough talk on this issue, given the Trump administration’s history of erratic behavior towards its allies.
Source: https://www.economist.com/asia/2025/05/31/there-is-an-imminent-threat-to-taiwan-america-warns