Allies at a defense conference stressed unity as threats become global. Japan's Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi highlighted that division weakens deterrence, while unity strengthens it. He criticized China's military expansion and its accusations of Japanese militarism. U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth urged European allies to increase defense spending. Australian Defense Minister Richard Marles agreed that rules-based order needs power.

SINGAPORE: US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Saturday urged Asian allies to ramp up military spending to counter China’s growing power and prevent its dominance in the region,…

The Pentagon chief, speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore said stronger, more self-reliant allies are key to deterrence.

US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth lauded Asian allies like South Korea and Japan for defence contributions. He also noted improved ties with China following President Trump's…