Beijing: China on Thursday called US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth's remarks about rebuilding the military and preparing for war with Beijing an 'ideological confrontation.'

According to Anadolu Agency, US Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth stated on Wednesday that Washington is 'prepared' for war with China. This statement came as a response to Beijing's threats following the president's imposition of new tariffs. Hegseth emphasized that while Washington does not "seek" war with China, President Trump "has sought historic peace and historic opportunity" with Beijing. Despite these efforts, Hegseth reiterated his responsibility to ensure the United States is prepared for any potential conflicts.

In response to Hegseth's statements, Foreign Ministry spokesman Lin Jian criticized the US rhetoric, describing it as an effort to fuel ideological confrontation and propagate a 'China threat' that he claims does not exist. Speaking at a news conference, Lin expressed disapproval of Washington's approach to bilateral relations, which he described as being characterized by an 'outdated Cold War mentality.'

Lin further urged the United States to abandon any attempts to contain or target China under the guise of strategic competition. He stated, "The US must no longer seek to contain or go after China in the name of strategic competition. We've always held the clear-cut view that whatever kind of war it is, a tariff war or a trade war, a cold war or a hot war, they should not be fought and cannot be won."