US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth met with Philippine President Ferdinand Marcos to underscore the commitment to strengthen their alliance in the face of China's assertiveness. This visit, significant amidst scrutiny over Hegseth's recent leaks regarding US strikes in Yemen, emphasizes the need for deterrence in the region. Both leaders discussed the importance of standing united to ensure freedom of navigation in contested waters. As tensions rise over China's territorial claims, the trip signals a concerted effort to rally allies in the Asia Pacific.
Peace through strength is a very real thing... friends need to stand shoulder-to-shoulder to deter conflict, to ensure that there's free navigation.
Hegseth's visit sends a very strong message of the allies' commitment to bolster their alliance amid growing tensions with China.
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