Trump’s tariff threats overshadow Rubio’s first Asia trip.
Secretary of State Marco Rubio arrived in Kuala Lumpur for the ASEAN Regional Forum with aims to reaffirm U.S. commitment to Asia—but his mission was overshadowed by President Trump’s broad tariff letters threatening Asian allies with new duties .
Diplomats from Japan and South Korea expressed “shock, frustration, and anger” at receiving overnight letters outlining potential 25% tariffs, stating they were blindsided and had been in good faith talks . Analysts warn this move could drive key allies closer to China .
Critics note that while Rubio cancelled planned visits to Tokyo and Seoul to address Middle East developments, the simultaneous tariff threats risk undermining the U.S. “pivot to Asia” narrative . Evan Medeiros, a former U.S. official, said, "If everything is a priority, nothing is a priority." .
Rubio insists the U.S. remains committed to Indo-Pacific security and prosperity, but the timing and tone of trade measures are unsettling regional partners.
I’m Adedayo Obadina
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