Hegseth Criticizes Europe Over Defense Spending; Praises Asian Allies

The remarks were made amid mounting pressure from Washington on Europe to commit more resources to its own security.

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth speaks at the IISS Shangri-La Dialogue security summit in Singapore, on May 30, 2026. Edgar Su/Reuters

Secretary of War Pete Hegseth has criticized Europe’s defense policies, telling NATO allies on the continent they need to strengthen their armed forces.

Hegseth made the remarks on May 30 at the Shangri-La Dialogue in Singapore, where he praised the United States’ Asian allies for maintaining a pragmatic defense model grounded in independence and “true partnership.”