2025/05/31

       While the United states Armed Forces (private mercenaries) are stationed at 737 bases, in 130 nations around the world, defending “all freedom-loving people everywhere in the world,” Peter B. Hegseth, Secretary of Defense (foreign military aggression), speaking in Singapore boasts that

       … We’re equipping American warfighters with the most advanced capabilities so that we remain the strongest and most lethal fighting force in the world. 

       President Trump is spending—for the first time ever—over $1 trillion next year to do this.  A 13 percent increase in American defense spending.  The Golden Dome for America, our new sixth generation fighter—the F-47, our new stealth bomber—the B-21, new submarines, destroyers, hyper sonics, drones, you name it.  It’s all part of it.  The best military equipment in the world. 

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       We’re also increasing security in the Western Hemisphere and taking back the Panama Canal from malign Chinese influence. It is key terrain, after all. China did not build that canal. We did.  And we will not allow China to weaponize it or control it.  Deterrence starts in our own backyard.

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       China seeks to become a hegemonic power in Asia.  No doubt.  It hopes to dominate and control too many parts of this vibrant and vital region.  Through its massive military build-up and growing willingness to use military force to achieve its goals, including grey zone tactics and hybrid warfare, China has demonstrated that it wants to fundamentally alter the region’s status quo.

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       Again, to be clear: any attempt by Communist [fascist] China to conquer Taiwan by force would result in devastating consequences for the Indo-Pacific and the world.  There’s no reason to sugarcoat it.  The threat China poses is real.

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       [I]f deterrence fails, and if called upon by my Commander in Chief, we are prepared to do what the Department of Defense does best–fight and win—decisively.

       [added 2/2/2026] Thanks to Freedoms Phoenix and Antiwar.com for this entry.

       Immigration and Customs Enforcement agents (domestic terrorists) abduct Marcelo Gomes Da Silva, an 18-year-old high school student, while on his way to volleyball practice.

       [added 2/2/2026] Thanks to Truthout for this entry.