Trump's demand for higher defense spending by allies may backfire on US, analysts say

Former President Donald Trump's calls for Asia-Pacific allies to shoulder more of their defense costs are prompting a strategic reevaluation among regional powers. His demands have intensified questions about the reliability of U.S. security guarantees against threats from China and North Korea. In response, nations in the region are increasingly prioritizing the development of their own defense industries. Analysts suggest this growing self-reliance, while addressing immediate security concerns, could paradoxically diminish American influence in the global arms market over time. The National Security Strategy document released by the U.S. has also fueled these discussions, highlighting a potential shift in American foreign policy priorities. This evolving landscape forces allies to balance their immediate security needs with long-term strategic autonomy, potentially altering the established military-economic order.