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Pentagon Undersecretary Urges Allies Fund Defense, Promises Asia Commitment

8/11/2026

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Summary

Story summary

Pentagon undersecretary of defense Elbridge Colby told officials that allies must fund their own defense because the United States is a partner, not a protectorate.
He echoed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s vow for a defense that deters aggression and said United States will not disengage from Asia, promising to “dig in” to keep a favorable balance.
Colby said his tour will visit Indonesia, Thailand and Cambodia and praised Philippine drills.

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Story summary

Pentagon undersecretary of defense Elbridge Colby told officials that allies must fund their own defense because the United States is a partner, not a protectorate.
He echoed Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth’s vow for a defense that deters aggression and said United States will not disengage from Asia, promising to “dig in” to keep a favorable balance.
Colby said his tour will visit Indonesia, Thailand and Cambodia and praised Philippine drills.