Speaking at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth said allies must take greater responsibility for their own security as Washington pursues a stronger and more realistic approach to defence
Singapore, May 30, 2026: United States Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth used his address at the 23rd IISS Shangri-La Dialogue to outline the Trump administration’s vision for national defence and regional security, stressing that America’s allies must contribute more to their own protection and collective security.
Hegseth said the United States is restoring what he described as “a powerful and realistic approach” to defence policy, centred on shared responsibility among allies and partners.
“The era of the United States subsidising the defence of wealthy nations is over,” he said. “We want partners, not protectorates. We seek alliances built on shared responsibility, not dependency.”
The US Defence Secretary emphasised that Washington’s strategy is focused on clarity, stability and practical cooperation rather than confrontation.
“Our focus is strong, quiet and clear: clear about our intentions, our priorities and our ability to deliver on the administration’s goals,” Hegseth said. “Our allies across Asia do not seek constant escalation, rhetorical theatrics or a region defined by public confrontation.”
Reaffirming America’s commitment to the Indo-Pacific, he said the United States remains committed to preserving regional peace and prosperity.
“The United States seeks to preserve the conditions that have long underwritten peace and prosperity in this region,” he said. “We are the power working to sustain equilibrium, not disrupt it.”
Hegseth also delivered a clear message on burden-sharing, stating that countries willing to contribute more to collective defence would benefit from closer cooperation with Washington.
“For those nations that embrace their responsibility as true partners, the benefits will be clear,” he said. “Allies that refuse to step up and carry their own weight for our collective defence will face a clear shift in how we do business.”
According to Hegseth, the administration’s approach encourages Indo-Pacific nations to strengthen their defence capabilities, increase security investments and cooperate with the United States in ways that advance mutual interests.
“Our approach asks Pacific nations to do what many are already eager to do: invest seriously in their own defence, contribute more to collective security and work with the US in pragmatic ways that advance our shared interests,” he said.
Source and Photos Credit: IISS
