Southeast Asian leaders doubt US 'flexible realism' pledge amid growing scepticism

Elbridge Colby, the Pentagon’s undersecretary for defence policy, embarked on a tour of key Southeast Asian capitals, urging the region to embrace what he called “flexible realism” that aligns with local pragmatism and economic goals. In Manila he lauded the Philippines as a “model ally” and pointed to US coast-guard deployments in the South China Sea, then repeated a similar message in Jakarta, emphasizing mutual respect with President Prabowo Subianto.

He also pressed for stronger defence links with Thailand and Cambodia, arguing that shared burden-sharing could restore US strategic leadership. Critics note that recent US tariffs, the fallout from the Iran war, and a pivot toward China have eroded confidence in Washington’s promises. The piece argues that despite the rhetoric, Southeast Asian states remain skeptical of the United States’ ability to deliver tangible support.