Hegseth says U.S. seeks Southeast Asia defense framework
By The BriefBrief
U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth said Washington is seeking a framework for defense cooperation with Southeast Asia as it seeks to bolster partners as a counterweight to Beijing. Hegseth also met Australian Deputy Prime Minister and Defence Minister Richard Marles in the Philippines to discuss initiatives to strengthen defense cooperation and the U.S.-Australia alliance.
WHO:U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth
WHAT:Hegseth said the United States is seeking a defense cooperation framework with Southeast Asia.
WHEN:Reported Oct 28, 2026 at 2:07 AM ET
WHERE:Philippines
WHY:Washington is seeking to bolster partners as a counterweight to Beijing.
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