US to demand allies choose between US, China AI coalitions

The United States is preparing to deliver an ultimatum to dozens of allied nations, demanding they choose between a U.S.-led artificial intelligence coalition or a competing Chinese-backed framework, warning that participation in both will not be tolerated. According to an internal U.S. State Department draft letter and a U.S. official, Washington plans to inform the 35 signatories of a June AI Opportunity Statement that their membership in the American-led Pax Silica initiative cannot coexist with joining Beijing's rival organization. The move represents a significant escalation in the technological rivalry between the two superpowers, forcing partner countries to pick a side in the global contest over AI supply chains, standards, and influence.

Pax Silica, launched in 2025, is a non-binding framework designed to secure supply chains for AI models, semiconductors, and critical minerals among its approximately two dozen member states, which include Japan, Australia, and South Korea. It provides members with access to investment opportunities and aims to reduce dependence on geopolitical rivals. In July 2026, China launched its own coalition, the World Artificial Intelligence...