US Defense Chief Highlights Asia Focus Amid China Tensions

U.S. Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin emphasized the importance of focusing on China's threat in the Asia-Pacific region during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, despite ongoing conflicts in Ukraine and Gaza. Austin met with Chinese officials to address tensions over Taiwan and the South China Sea, reaffirming the U.S. commitment to regional security and alliances. Chinese officials criticized the U.S. strategy as divisive and self-serving. The Philippines also condemned China's aggressive actions in the South China Sea, with Austin reiterating U.S. support for Manila.