Defense Secretary Hegseth Softens Tone Toward China at Shangri-La Dialogue
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth adopted a calibrated tone toward China during the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, avoiding previous descriptions of Beijing as a direct threat. Hegseth expressed respect for China's ambitions and suggested a more collaborative chapter in relations, though he maintained that the U.S. status regarding Taiwan remains unchanged. While Hegseth viewed arms sales to Taiwan as a potential negotiating chip, reports indicate a pause in those sales due to tensions with Iran. Simultaneously, Hegseth renewed threats against Iran and urged regional allies to boost their own defense spending to ensure Pacific security.
Prefer swipe-first reading?
Install the app to keep reading with faster loads and a smoother mobile experience.
Sources
Hegseth tones down warnings about China: "We respect their ambitions," but "position hasn't changed on Taiwan" - CBS News
The U.S. is required by law to ... on whether it would intervene militarily if China were to attack the island. Hegseth told the forum that there was "no change in our status" toward Taiwan, but would not comment on the arms deal....
He commented that arms sales to Taiwan is a "very good negotiating chip" with China. Days later, a senior U.S. official said arms sales to Taiwan have been paused due to the war in Iran. People in the region wanted clarity on Taiwan and Iran but "[Hegseth's speech] was really light on substance," ...
Hegseth Avoids Taiwan in Address to Asia Allies, Notes Greater China Ties - Newsweek
See more of our trusted coverage when you search.Prefer Newsweek on Googleto see more of our trusted coverage when you search. U.S. Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth's remarks on Taiwan at a top defense summit in Singapore on Saturday appeared calibrated not to derail President Donald Trump's efforts to manage tensions with China...
Raging Hegseth forced to address dwindling stockpiles in new Iran threat amid ammo fears - The Mirror US
Secretary of War Pete Hegseth renewed the United States' threats to attack Iran and said the Trump administration was ready to strike the country again again as peace talks prolong. Speaking at the Shangri-La Dialogue summit, a premier defense forum in Singapore, Hegseth said, "Our stockpiles ...
Hegseth told the forum that there was “no change in our status” toward Taiwan, but would not comment on the arms deal. “Any decision about future Taiwan arms sales, as the president said, will rest with him,” he said. ... He underscored the Trump administration’s insistence that allies increase defense ...
Test Your News I.Q. — take today’s quiz ... 2026 Elections Election Results Election calendar White House Congress Supreme Court The latest AP-NORC polls Ground Game ... Exclusive insights and key stories from the world of politics.
Fact Checks
Related news
Brazilian Court Blocks Bolsonaro from Visiting Sons on Father's Day
Brazil's top court has issued a ban preventing former president Jair Bolsonaro from visiting his sons on Father's Day this Sunday. The decision enforces stricter visitation guidelines following recent legal disputes. The restrictions come after the Supreme Court ruled that the family had breached terms, with some reports noting previous actions, such as Flavio Bolsonaro reading letters online despite social media bans. Some court rulings have extended these blocks for longer periods.
IS-linked Militants Attack Congo Village; UN Imposes Sanctions on Armed Groups
An attack by militants affiliated with Islamic State-linked groups has reportedly killed at least 13 people in a village located in eastern Congo, near the border with Uganda. The region continues to face severe instability. Beyond these attacks, suspected fighters from the Allied Democratic Forces (ADF) have been active, and the UN Security Council recently imposed sanctions on leaders of various armed groups operating throughout eastern DRC.
Lionel Messi's Father and Agent, Jorge Messi, Dies at Age 68
Jorge Messi, the father and longtime agent of Argentine soccer legend Lionel Messi, died at the age of 68. Reports indicate he had been battling a long-term illness. Messi's father was instrumental in his son's career, having accompanied him to Europe when he signed with Barcelona as a teenager. He was widely recognized for his dedication and presence supporting Lionel throughout his professional life.
Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know (10 sources)
Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know (10 sources) This story has been covered by multiple news sources, providing comprehensive coverage from different perspectives. **www.npr.org** reports: Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know : NPRBack ButtonSearch IconFilter Icon ### [Space](https://www.npr.org/sections/space/) Solar eclipse to occur next week. Here is what to know ====================================================== August 8, 20268:56 PM ET By [Chandelis Duster](https://www.npr.org/people/g-s1-23120/chandelis-duster) 
Democratic Socialist Francesca Hong Leads Wisconsin Governor Race Amid Scrutiny
Francesca Hong has emerged as a front-runner in the Wisconsin gubernatorial race, potentially making history as the state's first socialist governor. Her strong polling numbers position her as a significant figure in this critical battleground state. The campaign faces intense scrutiny regarding its democratic socialist platform and policy shifts, including evolving views on defunding police. Meanwhile, national Democratic figures have expressed skepticism about Hong’s electability, while others suggest alternative candidates may benefit from the primary outcome.
Three inmates killed in recent separate prison clashes across Sri Lanka
Sri Lanka reported that three inmates were killed and more than twenty people were injured during two separate, deadly prison clashes. The unrest has prompted the deployment of military troops to major correctional facilities, including Welikada and Magazine Prisons. Officials attribute the growing instability to severe overcrowding within the country's jail system, which is reportedly operating at capacity.
Take Yomuyo with you
Download the mobile app for personalized headlines and quick access to breaking stories.