On Friday, U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth warned allies to increase military spending and cautioned China against disrupting the balance of power in the Asia-Pacific region.

US Pushes Asia-Pacific Allies To Increase Defense Spending

Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue security forum in Singapore, Hegseth said Washington wants a stronger network of allies capable of sharing more of the security burden instead of relying disproportionately on American military power, CNBC reported.

"For too long, the security of this region has rested disproportionately on American military power, while many of our allies and partners allowed their own defense capabilities to atrophy," Hegseth said.

He said the U.S. expects allies and partners to spend 3.5% of GDP on defense and suggested countries that increase spending will receive benefits, including faster arms sales, expanded intelligence sharing and deeper defense-industrial cooperation.

"Allies who refuse to step up and carry their own weight for our collective defense will face a clear shift in how we do business," he warned.

Hegseth praised countries including the Philippines, Australia, Indonesia, Malaysia and Singapore for increasing defense cooperation, while also highlighting India and Vietnam for improving military readiness.

Hegseth Warns China Over Regional Influence

Hegseth framed China as the primary long-term strategic challenge in the region, saying Washington seeks "a favorable but durable balance of power" where no country can dominate its neighbors.

He said there is "rightful alarm" across the Asia-Pacific over China's military expansion and growing regional activities.

"While a decent peace is our goal, make no mistake, America is a Pacific nation," Hegseth said. "We insist that China respect our longstanding position in the region."

Earlier this month, Donald Trump cautioned Taipei against assuming unconditional U.S. military support while urging restraint from both sides after his summit with Chinese President Xi Jinping.

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