During a press conference in Tokyo, Admiral John Aquilino, head of the U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, voiced his concerns about the surge in China’s defense spending. He stated that China’s economy was facing significant challenges, especially due to difficulties in the real estate sector, and questioned the accuracy of its official growth rates. Aquilino emphasized that China was investing far more in its military than the 7.2% increase reported last month.

Despite these economic challenges, Aquilino noted that there was a deliberate decision to prioritize funding for military capabilities. He expressed his unease over this choice, particularly considering the current economic situation in China. Aquilino also criticized China’s aggressive behavior and rhetoric in areas such as the South and East China Seas and concerning developments around disputed territories like the Second Thomas Shoal and Taiwan.

While Aquilino condemned China’s military actions and rhetoric, he also had strong words for North Korean leader Kim Jong Un’s regime. He labeled their decision to prioritize military spending over addressing food shortages in the country as “disgusting.” Aquilino pointed out that despite sanctions and economic challenges, the North Korean regime was allocating resources towards military capabilities instead of meeting the basic needs of its people.

In response to these concerns and criticisms, the Chinese foreign ministry did not immediately provide a comment. However, Aquilino’s statements shed light on the complexities of military spending and priorities in the region, raising questions about how countries balance their defense needs with addressing pressing economic and humanitarian issues.

Overall, it is clear that Admiral John Aquilino has serious concerns about China’s increased defense spending and aggressive behavior towards neighboring countries. While he acknowledges that there are challenges facing both economies in Asia-Pacific region, he believes that prioritizing military capabilities is not a sustainable solution to long-term stability in this region.

The United States government should continue to engage with allies like Japan to address these issues together while working towards finding diplomatic solutions to ongoing conflicts with both North Korea and China.

As for North Korea’s actions towards food shortages, it is crucial that international community works together to pressure Kim Jong Un’s regime into changing course towards providing adequate nutrition for its citizens rather than investing heavily in weapons programs.