Daniel Kritenbrink, former US assistant secretary of state for East Asian and Pacific affairs, said that, based on his recent Asia-Pacific visit, he felt unease is growing in capitals like Seoul and Hanoi over US military actions and their energy implications.

He noted that some countries are reassessing Washington's reliability in ensuring security and economic stability. Meanwhile, in contrast to this unease, Kritenbrink said he sensed strong confidence from the Chinese side while attending the China Development Forum.