How is the United States adjusting its defense strategy to address the growing threat from China while managing its global security commitments?

The United States is implementing a strategic pivot that prioritizes deterring conflict with China in the Indo-Pacific region while recognizing resource limitations. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth emphasizes that America faces a "peer competitor" in communist China, which possesses both the capability and intent to threaten U.S. homeland security and core national interests in the Pacific. This strategic shift involves making difficult resource allocation decisions due to the reality of scarcity in defense spending. The U.S. is simultaneously focusing on securing its own borders while preparing for potential threats in the Indo-Pacific theater. The strategy also calls for increased European responsibility for regional security, particularly regarding Ukraine, allowing America to concentrate resources on the China threat. This approach aims to strengthen deterrence capabilities and prevent the escalation of conflicts through strategic resource management and allied collaboration.