Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth says US is ‘prepared’ to go to war with China over tariff threats

US Defense Secretary Warns of Readiness for War with China Amid Rising Tensions

In a striking escalation of rhetoric, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth declared on Wednesday that the United States is “prepared” for war with China. This bold statement came just hours after China issued ominous warnings in response to President Trump’s newly imposed tariffs. The trade dispute between the two superpowers has reached a boiling point, with both sides digging in their heels and refusing to back down. Speaking on Fox News’ Fox & Friends, Hegseth emphasized the importance of strength in the face of growing tensions. “Those who long for peace must prepare for war,” he said, echoing a timeless adage about deterrence. Hegseth underscored the need for a robust military and a strong stance, especially in light of China’s rapid defense modernization and ideological differences with the US.

China Vows to Fight Back Against US Tariffs

The escalation began when China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson, Lin Jian, issued a strong warning late Tuesday. If the US insisted on pursuing a trade or tariff war, Lin declared, China was “ready to fight till the end.” This was a direct response to President Trump’s decision to double tariffs on Chinese imports from 10% to 20%. China wasted no time in retaliating, announcing its own tariff hikes of 10%-15% on a range of American agricultural and food products. Additionally, Beijing imposed export and investment restrictions on 25 US firms, citing national security concerns. These moves reflect China’s determination to defend its economic interests and signal that it will not be intimidated by US trade policies.

Hegseth Highlights China’s Growing Military Power

During his Fox News interview, Hegseth pointed to China’s increasing defense spending and technological advancements as cause for concern. “They’re rapidly increasing their defense spending, modern technology; they want to supplant the United States,” he noted. Hegseth emphasized the importance of US military strength to deter potential conflicts. “If we want to deter war with the Chinese or others, we have to be strong,” he said. The secretary also highlighted the importance of re-establishing deterrence and fostering a “warrior ethos” within the military. Hegseth’s comments were a clear signal that the US is not only prepared for a trade war but also for any potential military confrontation that may arise.

A Delicate Balance: Trump and Xi’s Relationship

Despite the tough rhetoric, Hegseth was quick to downplay the idea of open conflict. He insisted that President Trump enjoys a “great relationship” with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Hegseth expressed optimism that the two leaders could work toward “historic peace and historic opportunities.” However, he also made it clear that his primary responsibility as defense secretary is to ensure the US military is ready for any scenario. “We need the defense spending, the capabilities, the weapons, and the posture in the Indo-Pacific,” he said, pointing to the region as a critical focus for US strategic interests. This dual approach—diplomatic engagement combined with military preparedness—reflects the delicate balance the US is trying to strike in its relationship with China.

The Indo-Pacific Region: A Flashpoint for Tensions

The Indo-Pacific region has emerged as a focal point for US-China tensions. Hegseth’s comments highlight the importance of this region in the broader strategic competition between the two powers. The US has been actively working to strengthen alliances and build military capabilities in the Indo-Pacific, a move that China views as a threat to its growing influence. While both sides claim to want peace, their actions suggest a deep-seated rivalry. The US is committed to maintaining its dominance in the region, while China seeks to expand its own influence and protect its interests. This dynamic creates a volatile mix of competition and cooperation, with the potential for conflict always lurking in the background.

The Trade War Escalates: A Brewing Storm

The latest round of tariffs and counter-tariffs has pushed the US-China trade war to new heights. Both sides are dug in, with no clear path to resolution. The US insists that China must address issues like intellectual property theft and forced technology transfers, while China accuses the US of unfair trade practices. The economic impact of the trade war is already being felt, with US farmers bearing the brunt of Chinese retaliatory measures. Meanwhile, the global economy is on edge, as the conflict threatens to disrupt supply chains and slow growth. Hegseth’s warning about the readiness for war serves as a stark reminder that the trade dispute could potentially spiral into something far more dangerous.

Conclusion: A Dangerous Game of Power and Diplomacy

The latest developments in US-China relations reveal a dangerous game of power and diplomacy. While both sides appear to be leaving the door open for dialogue, the rhetoric and actions on display suggest a deepening divide. Hegseth’s assertion that the US is prepared for war, coupled with China’s vow to fight back, underscores the high stakes involved. The trade war is no longer just about economics; it has become a symbol of the broader struggle for global influence. As tensions continue to rise, the world watches nervously, hoping that cooler heads will prevail before things spiral out of control. The US and China must navigate this delicate balancing act carefully—if they fail, the consequences could be catastrophic.