Japan Cancels US Meeting Over Defense Spending Demands
Japan’s cancellation of a US meeting underscores a growing rift between the two nations, stemming from Washington’s demand for increased Japanese defense spending. The situation highlights a fundamental disagreement over the appropriate level of military expenditure and the nature of the US-Japan alliance.
The US request for Japan to boost its defense budget to 3.5% of its GDP is seen as excessive, especially given Japan’s already increased spending from 1% to 2%. This demand feels particularly heavy-handed, considering Japan’s constitutional constraints on military activity and its ongoing efforts to bolster its defense capabilities.
The timing of the US request is also questionable.… Continue reading
Matt Underwood