Washington, 29 April 2026 – The United States has sharpened its message to allies, warning that countries failing to contribute enough to collective defence may face consequences as Washington pushes for a more transactional approach to global security partnerships.

The remarks by US Defence Secretary Pete Hegseth came during prepared testimony before the House Armed Services Committee, where he said allies that “step up” on defence would receive special favour, while those that fail to do their part would face consequences. He cited countries including Israel, South Korea, Poland, Finland and the Baltic states as examples of partners Washington views positively for their defence commitments.

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Author

Tim Clark
Tim Clark is a Senior Geopolitical Analyst for The Ledger Asia, specializing in the intersection of international relations and market stability. With over a decade of experience, Tim provides deep-dive insights into Indo-Pacific security, global supply chain resilience, and the strategic competition between major powers.
Previously a consultant for leading international think tanks, he focuses on how shifting diplomatic landscapes and maritime disputes impact corporate governance and trade policy. At The Ledger Asia, Tim’s analysis equips readers with the clarity needed to navigate the complex regulatory and economic environments of Southeast Asia and beyond.