Why Southeast Asia isn’t buying the US’ offer of ‘flexible realism’
In arguably his most important foreign trip, Elbridge Colby, US undersecretary for defence policy, visited key Southeast Asian capitals this month. In a speech in Manila, the Pentagon policy chief extolled America’s “flexible realism”, which he said serves “the practical, concrete interests of regular Americans” and echoes Southeast Asian nations’ commitment to “pragmatism, an openness to…
US Undersecretary for Defence Policy Elbridge Colby embarked on a crucial diplomatic tour across Southeast Asia, advocating for the administration's "flexible realism" doctrine. This strategy emphasizes America's commitment to the region's strategic importance and calls for strategic partnerships founded on mutual respect and cooperation.
In his address in Manila, Colby sought to reassure Southeast Asian nations amid the US' beleaguered image, particularly in light of the ongoing Middle East conflict. He highlighted the Philippines as a "model ally" and touted the deployment of US coastguard forces amid escalating tensions in the South China Sea. Despite Colby's persuasive efforts, skepticism remained regarding the US' strategic commitment.
The nation's growing unpopularity and the energy crisis stemming from the ill-fated war in Iran compounded growing discontent with American foreign policy. Moreover, key regional states have strengthened their ties with China, creating a challenging environment for the US. Colby's vision of flexible realism, intended to position Asia as the primary theatre of competition against China, appears unattainable.
The US's recent military engagements abroad contradicted Colby's rhetoric, including military escalations in Latin America and the Middle East, as well as the strained relationship with Ukraine. Additionally, the Pentagon's decision to redeploy the USS George Washington to the Middle East further diluted the US' presence in Asia.
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.
