Why China will need a ‘more persuasive security offer’ to win over middle powers

In Manila on August 10, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy Elbridge Colby urged regional partners to increase defense spending and align with American priorities. Colby stated that Washington seeks "partners, not protectorates" and warned against "superficial ideas like middle-power alliances designed to exclude America." This occurred shortly before Chinese leader Xi Jinping's planned visit to the White House, amid heightened tensions between Washington and its allies. The article suggests China will need a more compelling security proposal to gain the trust of middle powers.