Marco Rubio’s first trip to Asia as secretary of state was aimed at assuring U.S. partners. Instead, it was cut short and dominated by trade tensions.

U.S. Secretary of State Marco Rubio met counterparts in Southeast Asia on Thursday during his first visit to Asia since taking office, seeking to reassure them that the region is a U.S. priority despite President Donald Trump's tariff offensive.

Sweeping tariffs set to be imposed by President Donald Trump next month may overshadow his top diplomat’s first official trip to Asia.