At the Xiangshan Forum in Beijing, Chinese Defence Minister Dong Jun criticized “hegemonic logic” and “acts of bullying,” implicitly targeting the United States amid rising tensions over geopolitical issues. He emphasized that while global themes of peace and development remain, the threat of a Cold War mentality persists, particularly in the context of maritime disputes in the South China Sea. Dong’s remarks coincided with China’s recent military parade showcasing advanced weaponry, reinforcing its stance on regional sovereignty. This situation highlights the complexities of global defense dynamics, with India keenly observing China’s assertive posture and the ongoing U.S. commitment to Taiwan’s defense, potentially impacting India’s own strategic calculations in the Indo-Pacific region.