The U.S. House Committee on Foreign Affairs convened on February 26, 2025, to evaluate the missed milestones and unseized opportunities in the East Asia and Pacific (EAP) region during the Trump administration. The meeting focused on the implications of recent developments in the Pacific Islands and the need for renewed American leadership in the face of growing Chinese influence.

The session began with discussions on the importance of unmanned undersea capabilities, emphasizing the potential for quick wins within the AUKUS partnership. Participants highlighted that demonstrating tangible results within a short timeframe could bolster momentum for the alliance and showcase its strategic value.

A significant concern raised was the perceived questioning of transatlantic alliances and the impact of foreign aid freezes under the previous administration. Members expressed a desire to reaffirm commitments to global partnerships, stressing that a lack of American leadership could create a vacuum that China might exploit. This sentiment underscored the urgency for the new administration to restore confidence among allies and partners in the Indo-Pacific region.

Representative from American Samoa brought attention to recent agreements signed by independent Samoa and the Cook Islands with China, noting that these developments positioned his district in a precarious situation, surrounded by nations aligning with Chinese interests. He urged the new administration to take proactive measures to counteract China's growing presence in the Pacific Islands, suggesting that trade opportunities could be a viable avenue for engagement.

The meeting concluded with a call for strategic actions from President Trump and Secretary Rubio to strengthen U.S. ties in the region and counterbalance China's influence. The discussions highlighted the critical need for a cohesive foreign policy approach that prioritizes partnerships and addresses emerging challenges in the Pacific.