January 1, Trump Battles Allies’ Resistance On China Threat

Wyatt’s Take

• Trump pushes Asian allies to pay more for their own defense.
• Domestic politics in Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea cause roadblocks.
• Getting everyone on board to counter China is tougher than it looks.

President Trump is urging America’s East Asian partners to put more money into their own defense. The White House’s top officials are stressing that the region’s safety depends on these countries stepping up.

Under Secretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby said,

“It’s common sense that all allies, especially in Asia, need to pull their weight.”

He added,

“That’s how we get peace through strength and sustainable collective defense.”

Colby mentioned New Zealand’s defense minister, who called out her own country and others in the region for not doing enough on defense, pointing to the growing danger posed by Red China.

China’s leader, Xi Jinping, has been building up Beijing’s military for years, aiming to push back and even overtake America’s power in the region. The People’s Liberation Army has made aggressive moves near U.S. allies, signaling that things could get worse if Asian partners don’t invest in their own security.

While Trump’s push deserves credit, getting these allies to raise their defense budgets is proving more complicated. In Taiwan, President Lai wants a 23 percent hike in military spending next year, but the opposition–friendly legislature may block it, as they’ve stalled funding before.

Political setbacks in Japan have made defense increases less certain. The ruling party lost seats in recent elections, making it unclear if more money for the military is on the way, despite calls from Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba.

South Korea just saw a major leadership shake-up. After conservative President Yoon was removed, new liberal President Lee—seen as friendlier to China—faces tough choices on defense priorities. His policy direction remains uncertain as he readies to meet with Trump.

America’s leaders can see the growing risks from China, but getting countries like Taiwan, Japan, and South Korea to match words with action will take hard bargaining. High-level talks and more pressure from Washington will be key to keeping peace and stability in East Asia.

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Wyatt Matters

Middle America knows that strength abroad protects families at home. If our allies don’t step up, the safety and security we count on could be at risk. Standing up to bullies like China requires holding partners accountable and demanding fair play from everyone.