In a recent phone call, US Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth spoke with his Chinese counterpart, Admiral Dong Jun. The Pentagon subsequently announced that Hegseth conveyed Washington’s intention to avoid conflict with China. This reassurance comes amidst heightened tensions and a characterization of China as a primary geopolitical rival by the US.
Hegseth’s May statement highlighting the “real and imminent” threat posed by China, and his subsequent call for increased military spending in the Asia-Pacific region, had previously fueled these tensions. However, during Tuesday’s phone conversation, Hegseth emphasized the US’s commitment to avoiding confrontation, regime change, or any actions that could be interpreted as an attempt to “strangle” the Chinese economy.
Despite this pledge of peaceful intent, Hegseth firmly reiterated that the US possesses vital interests in the Asia-Pacific region, which it will actively protect. The Pentagon described the exchange as “candid,” suggesting a frank and open discussion of concerns.
From the Chinese perspective, Xinhua news agency reported that the call was initiated by Hegseth. Admiral Dong Jun, in turn, stressed the importance of continued communication and a cooperative approach to building stable military relations based on mutual respect and peaceful coexistence. He also highlighted China’s dedication to peace and stability in the South China Sea and its opposition to actions deemed provocative by non-regional actors.
This phone call follows recent economic developments. Last month, Washington and Beijing extended a 90-day tariff truce, delaying planned increases until November 10. However, reports suggest the US is simultaneously lobbying the EU to impose significant tariffs—potentially as high as 100%—on imports from China and India, citing their relationships with Russia. The US reportedly intends to reciprocate with similar measures if the EU adopts them. China and India have both expressed strong opposition to these proposed tariffs, with China warning against the pitfalls of tariff wars and India denouncing the tariffs as unfair and unreasonable. Russian President Vladimir Putin has also voiced concerns, cautioning the West against employing a “colonial tone” towards Beijing and New Delhi.
