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In a move that highlights growing friction between the United States and China, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth on Wednesday declared that the US is "prepared" to go to war with China if necessary. His statement came in response to Beijing's bold assertion that it is ready to engage in any conflict, whether it be a trade war or a military confrontation.
US Warns of Readiness for Conflict
Hegseth issued a strong response to China's warning, emphasizing the need for military preparedness. “We’re prepared. Those who long for peace must prepare for war,” he stated, underlining the importance of strength in preventing potential conflicts.
The Defense Secretary further stressed that military power is essential in maintaining peace and deterring adversaries. He justified the US military buildup by explaining, “That’s why we’re rebuilding our military. If we want to deter war with the Chinese or others, we have to be strong, and the president understands that peace comes through strength.”
China’s Military Expansion Raises Concerns
Hegseth also pointed to China's rapid military growth, warning that Beijing is significantly boosting its defense spending and technological advancements. He accused China of seeking to overtake the United States on the global stage, stating, “They want to supplant the United States.”
His remarks reflect growing concerns in Washington over China’s increasing military capabilities, including the development of advanced weapons, artificial intelligence-driven warfare, and naval expansion in the Indo-Pacific region.
China Fires Back: Accuses US of Economic and Political Pressure
China’s Foreign Ministry responded with its own warning, asserting that it is fully prepared to counter any kind of confrontation with the US, whether in the form of tariffs, economic sanctions, or military threats.
The ministry also accused Washington of using the fentanyl crisis as an excuse to justify imposing higher tariffs on Chinese imports. According to Beijing, the US is unfairly shifting blame onto China while failing to address its own domestic drug issues.
“Instead of recognizing our efforts, the US has sought to smear and shift blame to China. They are trying to pressure and blackmail China with tariff hikes,” the statement read, further accusing the US of punishing China despite its cooperation in tackling fentanyl-related issues.
Rising US-China Tensions: A Dangerous Path Ahead?
With both nations ramping up their rhetoric and military posturing, tensions between the US and China continue to escalate. While both sides claim they are taking defensive measures, their statements and actions suggest that the possibility of a larger confrontation is growing.
The ongoing disputes over trade, technology, military dominance, and geopolitical influence are fueling uncertainty in international relations. As the world's two largest economies and military powers brace for further confrontations, global stability may hang in the balance.
