Fact-check: The article's claims are backed by reputable sources like Le Figaro, Rappler, and Channel News Asia, which align with verified reports on China's defense budget increases and US-China tech tensions. Recent events, including actual arrests in the Philippines and ongoing scrutiny of Chinese-linked firms, confirm the core details. While the 2026 budget timeline might be slightly speculative, it is consistent with established patterns and not contradicted by available information.
US-China Strategic Competition Escalates Across Defense, Tech, Intelligence
China announced a 7% defense budget increase to $276.8 billion for 2026, Le Figaro reports, signaling sustained military modernization amid intensifying US-China rivalry. Simultaneously, US lawmakers challenged Intel over testing chipmaking tools from China-linked firm ACM Research, citing national security concerns, per Rappler. The developments coincide with Philippine authorities arresting Filipino operatives conducting intelligence operations for China, Le Figaro reports, reflecting Beijing'