In a world where saber-rattling seems to be the new diplomacy, Secretary of War Pete Hegseth didn’t mince words during his first call with Chinese Adm. Dong Jun on September 9, 2025.
Fox News reported that amid rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific, this candid and constructive conversation addressed U.S. interests and the need to steer clear of conflict, all while China flexes its military muscle alongside allies like Russia and North Korea.
Just last week, China hosted a grand military parade to mark the 80th anniversary of Japan’s surrender in World War II. President Xi Jinping rolled out the big guns—literally—with displays of nuclear capabilities, hypersonic missiles, and stealth drones. It was a not-so-subtle reminder of Beijing’s growing might.
During the parade, Xi didn’t shy away from hinting at Taiwan, stressing the People’s Liberation Army’s duty to protect national sovereignty and territorial unity. “The PLA would resolutely safeguard national sovereignty, unity, and territorial integrity,” he declared. Well, that’s a clear message, but it’s hard not to wonder if “unity” is just code for territorial ambition.
Adding fuel to the fire, Xi has pegged 2027—the PLA’s 100th anniversary—as the deadline for full military modernization. U.S. officials have raised eyebrows, noting this timeline could align with potential plans for Taiwan. It’s a deadline that feels less like a celebration and more like a countdown.
China’s cozying up to Moscow and Pyongyang doesn’t help ease concerns either. Through arms deals and tech swaps, Beijing has tightened security ties with both regimes, while the U.S. points fingers at North Korea for funneling munitions to Russia’s war efforts in Ukraine. It’s a troubling trio that keeps the Pentagon on edge.
Let’s not forget, the U.S. isn’t sitting idle—two months before China’s event, America hosted its own military parade to celebrate the Army’s 250th birthday. It was a proud moment to showcase strength and unity on home soil. No hypersonic missiles needed when you’ve got 250 years of grit.
Back to the call, Hegseth laid down the law, as Pentagon spokesperson Sean Parnell put it: “Hegseth forthrightly relayed that the U.S. has vital interests in the Asia-Pacific, the priority theater, and will resolutely protect those interests.” That’s a polite but unmistakable line in the sand. We’re not here to play games, folks.
Parnell also noted, “Hegseth made clear that the United States does not seek conflict with China nor is it pursuing regime change or strangulation of the PRC.” It’s a reassuring stance, showing that while we’re firm, we’re not itching for a fight. Diplomacy still has a seat at the table.
Still, China’s actions speak louder than words, especially with U.S. sanctions on Chinese firms for allegedly helping Russia dodge Western export controls. It’s a sneaky workaround that undermines global stability. How can we trust a handshake when the other hand is passing weapons?
Both Hegseth and Dong Jun agreed to keep the lines of communication open, which is a small but critical win. With tensions this high, even a phone call can be a step back from the brink. Let’s hope future talks don’t just become a polite exchange of warnings.
Meanwhile, President Donald Trump has hinted at a possible meeting with Xi Jinping as trade negotiations continue. It’s a glimmer of hope that economic dialogue might cool some of the military heat. But let’s not hold our breath—trade talks have a way of stalling when pride is on the line.
The stakes couldn’t be higher in the Asia-Pacific, where every parade, every alliance, feels like a chess move in a much larger game. The U.S. must stand firm without tipping into unnecessary escalation. It’s a tightrope, but one we’ve walked before.
As this story unfolds, Fox News Digital has reached out to the Chinese embassy for their take on the Hegseth-Dong Jun call. Silence so far, but their response—or lack thereof—will say plenty. Until then, the world watches as two powers test each other’s resolve.
