US' priority is to deter Beijing's 'potential invasion of Taiwan': Reports

By Esra Tekin

ISTANBUL (AA) - A "classified document" allegedly distributed to employees of the US Department of Defense (Pentagon) said that the priority will be to "deter China's potential invasion of Taiwan," according to a Washington Post report published on Saturday.

The nine-page document, distributed to Pentagon staff under the signature of US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth, described China as a primary threat.

The document added that deterring China's potential invasion of Taiwan is a top priority, in addition to ensuring US internal security.

It outlined US President Donald Trump's vision of preparing for "potential war" against the Beijing administration.

It also indicated pressure for Taiwan to significantly increase its defense spending.

In addition, the document highlighted Washington's defense against "nearby threats," including Greenland and the Panama Canal.

The document also foresees a direct military role for the US in dealing with irregular migration and drug trafficking.

The document's similarity to a think tank report published in August 2024, with some repeated phrases, has caught attention.