The Kashiwazaki-Kariwa nuclear power plant, the world’s largest, is preparing for the restart of a reactor, defying local public opinion. Despite being offline since the Fukushima disaster, Tokyo Electric Power (Tepco) aims to reintroduce nuclear energy to boost electricity supply and meet emissions targets. However, the plan is met with strong opposition from nearby residents, who raise concerns about safety, evacuation plans, and the potential for another Fukushima-style incident. Residents also express distrust of Tepco and the government, citing issues like ineffective evacuation plans, seismic risks, and the nuclear industry’s influence. As Japan attempts to revive its nuclear energy sector, the restart of Kashiwazaki-Kariwa represents a significant challenge amid ongoing scrutiny and local resistance.
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In a recent incident, a Nuclear Regulation Authority (NRA) employee lost their work phone during a personal trip to Shanghai, China, containing confidential contact details of staff involved in nuclear security. The phone’s loss occurred at an airport security check and was not recovered. The NRA, which was established following the Fukushima disaster, is responsible for overseeing nuclear safety, including the restarting of reactors, and has reported the incident while also warning employees against bringing work phones abroad. This incident follows other security lapses involving nuclear officials, highlighting ongoing concerns about data protection and handling of sensitive information within the Japanese nuclear industry.
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In an interview with Tass news agency, Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov stated that Russia would support China in a Taiwan contingency, citing a treaty with China that promotes mutual support in defending national unity and territorial integrity. He also expressed concern over Japan’s increasing militarization, referencing rising defense spending under Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. Lavrov’s comments followed Takaichi’s remarks that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could be a “survival-threatening situation” for Japan. He urged Japan to carefully consider the potential consequences of its actions as it pursues militarization.
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Japan’s $6 billion for Ukraine says more than money: Zelenskyy thanks Tokyo for defending global order, and it’s easy to see why this resonates so powerfully. This isn’t just about the financial commitment, though that’s substantial. It’s about a nation with a history of quiet diplomacy stepping up and making a clear statement. The world is watching, and Japan is showing a commitment that extends far beyond the monetary value.
That’s because when a country like Japan, constrained by its constitution, takes such a decisive action, it speaks volumes. It’s a signal to the world that there’s a real commitment to defending the global order.… Continue reading
Japan to intensify Ukraine assistance in the first half of 2026. This is a pretty significant move, and frankly, it’s great to see Japan stepping up. Given the ongoing complexities of the situation, any increase in support is a positive development. It’s a clear signal of Japan’s stance against aggression and its commitment to upholding international law, especially considering their history. The fact that they’re choosing to intensify their assistance underscores their dedication.
Japan to intensify Ukraine assistance in the first half of 2026, and this can be seen as an act of solidarity. It also subtly highlights Japan’s own geopolitical realities.… Continue reading
Japan eyes adding Japanese proficiency to permanent residency requirements in anticipation of a rise in future applicants, and this certainly sparks a lot of thoughts and feelings. It’s a topic that touches on immigration, integration, and the very nature of what it means to become a part of a new society. The interesting thing is that many feel this move makes perfect sense. In fact, some are surprised it wasn’t already a requirement. The basic idea seems to be that if you’re planning to live permanently in a country, understanding and being able to communicate in the local language is, well, pretty fundamental.… Continue reading
China holds low-key Nanjing Massacre memorial despite Japan tensions, which is a significant event that deserves continued remembrance, regardless of the complexities of current diplomatic relations. It’s a reminder of a horrific event, akin to the Holocaust or the atomic bombings, and its importance extends to all of humanity. The low-key nature of this year’s commemoration doesn’t diminish its impact. The atrocities committed during the Nanjing Massacre, alongside the horrific experiments conducted by Japan’s Unit 731 using live Chinese people for bio/chemical weapons testing, represent some of the most egregious war crimes of World War II. These acts demand to be discussed and remembered, just as we remember the Holocaust.… Continue reading
The Japan Meteorological Agency has confirmed that certain areas of Japan have already experienced a tsunami. Officials stated that additional areas are anticipated to be impacted by the tsunami imminently. Residents in at-risk zones have been instructed to evacuate to higher ground and steer clear of coastal regions. While the largest waves recorded thus far have reached approximately half a meter, initial warnings suggested the potential for waves as high as three meters.
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In the wake of recent tensions, Japan and Australia expressed concern after Chinese military aircraft locked radar on Japanese fighter jets near Okinawa. Japan’s Defense Ministry reported the incident involved a Chinese J-15 aircraft that intermittently targeted Japanese F-15 fighter jets during exercises. Both countries formally protested the act, while China defended its military exercises and accused the Japanese aircraft of harassment. Australia and Japan agreed to bolster military ties and encourage the region’s multilateral defense cooperation, further solidifying their relationship amid the incident.
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Chinese jets directed fire-control radar at Japanese aircraft, Japan says.
The core of the issue here is that China reportedly directed its fire-control radar at Japanese aircraft. This is a big deal because, in the world of military aviation, it’s considered a highly provocative act. It essentially signals a potential attack. A fire-control radar lock isn’t just about spotting another aircraft; it’s the crucial first step in targeting and engaging it. This action forces the targeted aircraft to take immediate evasive action, triggering alarms and putting the crew on high alert. Think of it as the aerial equivalent of someone pointing a loaded gun at you.… Continue reading
John Q. Hosedrinker 
Matt Underwood