Claims Hegseth ‘on verge of losing job’ raise questions about future US-China defence ties
Speculation is growing that Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth is at increasing risk of losing his job, raising questions about the possible implications for US-China relations, according to multiple sources familiar with the matter. The sources, speaking on condition of anonymity because they were not authorised to discuss the matter publicly, said Hegseth was “on the verge of losing his job”. They…
Pentagon chief Pete Hegseth is facing speculation about losing his job, which has raised concerns about the future of US-China defense ties. Sources say he is "on the verge of losing his job" due to ongoing deadlock over Iran and negative media reports, including food shortages and poor sanitary conditions on the USS Abraham Lincoln.
The uncertainty comes as defense relations between the US and China have shown improvement since Trump and Xi met in Beijing in May. Hegseth previously claimed that relations between the two countries were "better than they've been in many years". However, if Hegseth were to be removed, it could have implications for communication between the Chinese and US militaries, especially if a new secretary requires a new process of building a relationship.
Despite this, US sources say the developing military relationship would not be derailed by Hegseth's potential exit, as Elbridge Colby has been the point man for talks with Chinese defence officials. US-China military contacts have been described as "very good right now", and a new defense chief is unlikely to have much impact unless the replacement is a China hawk.
Written by urgent.news from Reuters Business via SCMP's reporting — not their text. Machine-written — may contain errors; check the original before relying on it.
