Pete Hegseth and Trump make it clear: The U.S. isn’t backing down from China

Secretary of Defense Pete Hegseth is making it clear that if the U.S. is pushed into a fight with China, the country is ready. Recently, Hegseth responded to threats from the Chinese Embassy, stating, “If war is what the U.S. wants, be it a tariff war, a trade war, or any other type of war, we’re ready to fight till the end.” Strong words that signal a shift in how the U.S. is preparing for global conflicts. There’s no denying it: the world is becoming more dangerous by the day.

Hegseth didn’t stop there. He echoed the sentiment that “those who long for peace must prepare for war,” a reminder of the old adage that peace often comes only when you have the power to back it up. In a world where threats are becoming more frequent and more powerful, it’s crucial to stand firm. China has been growing rapidly, with an increasingly bold stance on global influence, spending more on defense and pushing its ideologies. Hegseth pointed out that these rising powers—China in particular—are working tirelessly to challenge the U.S.’s position as the global leader. And while the Biden administration has often appeared to falter, there’s no doubt that Trump is moving swiftly to reassert America’s strength.

China’s watchful eye has been on the U.S. for years. They’ve seen us stutter under Biden, but with Trump now pushing for a course correction, it’s clear we’re beginning to pay attention again. Hegseth’s statement isn’t just a warning. It’s a wake-up call. The U.S. is no longer sitting back quietly while others make their moves.

Meanwhile, Trump is doubling down on America’s global muscle with plans to revive U.S. shipbuilding. In a recent Capitol Hill address, the former president emphasized the importance of resurrecting the U.S. shipbuilding industry, both for commercial and military vessels, in a direct challenge to China’s dominance. It’s a strategic move that signals America’s intent to reclaim its manufacturing strength. Trump wants to create a new office dedicated to shipbuilding within the White House, backed by tax incentives to bring this vital industry back to U.S. shores. He made it clear that the country used to dominate the shipbuilding world—now it’s time to bring that power home.

Trump’s focus on restoring American industry, especially in the face of China’s growing influence, is an important shift in policy. This is about more than just ships; it’s about making America strong again on every front. If the U.S. wants to hold off rising global threats, it starts with restoring its manufacturing base and projecting strength where it counts. The fight for global dominance isn’t over—and Trump seems ready to ensure America remains on top.

Sources:

https://nypost.com/2025/03/05/us-news/defense-secretary-pete-hegseth-says-us-is-prepared-to-go-to-war-with-china-over-tariff-threats/

https://x.com/RedWave_Press/status/1897272125297205536

https://www.straitstimes.com/world/united-states/trump-seeks-revival-of-us-shipbuilding-to-counter-china