Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held a video call with Hegseth on the evening of the 9th. Dong Jun emphasized the need to maintain open communication and foster a relationship.

Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held a video call with Hegseth on the evening of the 9th. Dong Jun emphasized the need to maintain open communication and foster a relationship.

In a significant diplomatic move, Chinese Defense Minister Dong Jun held a video call with U.S. Defense Secretary Hegseth on the evening of September 9, 2025. The call underscored the importance of maintaining open communication and fostering a relationship between the two countries' defense establishments. This development comes amidst a backdrop of heightened geopolitical tensions and military activities in the Asia-Pacific region.

The call follows a series of recent military drills and incidents involving both China and the United States. In particular, China's military activities around Taiwan have been a point of contention, with the island conducting annual drills to prepare for a potential invasion . Meanwhile, the United States has been increasingly vocal about China's military activities in the South China Sea, accusing Beijing of illegally targeting supply ships .

Dong Jun emphasized the need for open communication and mutual understanding during the call. This stance is in line with China's recent efforts to address concerns over its military activities. In July 2023, China ousted top generals from the nuclear Rocket Force as part of a wider crackdown on the People's Liberation Army to ensure loyalty . Additionally, China's defense minister has been under investigation by Beijing, indicating a deepening turmoil within the military and foreign policy establishment .

The video call is also a response to growing tensions between the United States and China. In June 2023, the U.S. defense chief warned that incidents with China's military could "spiral out of control" and called for greater dialogue . This call for dialogue comes amidst a series of military incidents, including two "unsafe" intercepts of American forces by China .

While the call is a positive step towards de-escalation, it remains to be seen whether it will lead to concrete changes in military activities or a reduction in tensions. The future of U.S.-China relations will depend on the ability of both sides to maintain open communication and find common ground.

In conclusion, the video call between Dong Jun and Hegseth is a significant development in the ongoing geopolitical tensions between the United States and China. As both countries continue to engage in military activities in the Asia-Pacific region, open communication and dialogue will be crucial in preventing further escalation.