Indo-Pacific nations express confidence in US security support

Top navy officials from India, Japan, the US, Australia, and the Philippines discussed the future of security cooperation with President Trump's administration. Their comments came during a session at the Raisina Dialogue event in New Delhi on March 19. Concerns have risen about the US's commitment to global security alliances as President Trump has taken a transactional approach. Recently, Trump criticized the US-Japan security deal, questioning why Japan is not also obligated to protect the US. General Romeo S. Brawner from the Philippines expressed confidence in US support. He noted positive signals from Trump's team about security cooperation, suggesting that support for the Indo-Pacific could increase even as assistance to Europe decreases. General Yoshihide Yoshida from Japan emphasized the mutual obligations of the US-Japan alliance. He noted that the alliance serves the interests of both nations and is not threatened by Trump's remarks. Yoshida stated that Japan strengthens US capabilities in the Indo-Pacific region. Admiral Samuel Paparo, head of the US Indo-Pacific Command, reassured allies about America's commitment to defense. He highlighted a recent meeting of the Quad foreign ministers, which focused on enhancing maritime, economic, and technological security in the region. Paparo stated that the US's actions align with its commitments to security alliances.