US Defense Secretary Lloyd Austin has warned about the devastating consequences of a potential conflict with Taiwan while criticizing China for its actions. Austin made the comments at the Shangri-La security summit, where he emphasized that Washington would not tolerate coercion and bullying from Beijing. The summit saw China’s snub of US military leader heightened the escalation risk between the two countries. Despite the tensions, Austin and a Chinese military leader shared a handshake at the event. Vowing to keep the pressure on China, Austin also highlighted the US’s commitment to maintaining a strong presence in the region.