Zelensky-Trump clash sparks jitters in Asean nations over reliability of US commitments

On February 28, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelensky, and US President Donald Trump failed to reach a deal after a fiery exchange. The clash has given allies and other nations cause to mull their relationships with the US. Photo: Zuma Press Wire/TNS

Southeast Asia is keenly observing the unfolding geopolitical dynamics.

Observers say that under pressure from Trump, Asean’s long policy of neutrality and non-alignment between Beijing and Washington is to be further tested – although its neutral tradition could remain unchanged.

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The full heated argument between Zelensky, Trump and Vance

The full heated argument between Zelensky, Trump and Vance

The analysts said Asean members’ diplomatic actions had largely been bilateral rather than collective, indicating that some states, such as the Philippines, might face more serious challenges from Trump’s administration than others.