Pentagon official renews calls for allies' greater defense contributions
WASHINGTON — A senior Pentagon official reiterated calls Monday for Asian allies to make greater defense contributions, stressing that U.S. President Donald Trump's administration seeks partnerships, "not dependencies," and that America can no longer be "taken for granted." Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby made the remarks at the Stratbase Institute, a Philippine think tank in…
In a recent statement at the Stratbase Institute in Manila, a senior Pentagon official emphasized the need for Asian allies to increase their defense contributions. Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby stressed that the U.S. administration under President Donald Trump seeks partnerships, not dependencies, and that America can no longer be taken for granted.
Colby assured allies that the U.S. is committed to maintaining a favorable balance of power in Asia, despite concerns that Trump's America First policy might lead to less U.S. engagement in the region. He also warned against middle-power countries forming alliances designed to exclude America, urging them to integrate and complement America's interests.
The official did not name any specific countries. Speaking in Manila, Colby reiterated his intention to deliver a clear message: America's interests in the Indo-Pacific are more engaged than ever, and the Department of Defense is focused on ensuring those interests are stoutly defended. This entails a strong and growing U.S. presence in the region.
Written by urgent.news from The Korea Times's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
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