A Tricky Balancing Act for Southeast Asia

Southeast Asian countries have long tried to balance relations between China and the United States to maintain their economic and foreign policy independence. As Beijing became more assertive, particularly in the South China Sea, these nations had to adapt their strategies. They now face new challenges from the Trump administration, which is imposing tariffs and asking allies to contribute more to their own defense. Leaders in the region must also contend with their own specific domestic political and economic conditions.