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22h ago

Japan Cancels July Security Talks After US Demands Higher Defense Budget

Tokyo’s decision to cancel underscores growing tension over US defense budget demands ahead of Japan’s Upper House election.

Japanese and U.S. Flags fly side by side outside the White House in Washington, U.S., April 5, 2024. REUTERS/Kevin Lamarque/File Photo
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Overview

  • Japan called off the annual 2+2 security talks scheduled for July 1 in Washington after the US asked it to raise defense spending from 3% to 3.5% of GDP.
  • The higher spending demand was made in recent weeks by Pentagon policy undersecretary designate Elbridge Colby to bolster deterrence against China and North Korea.
  • Japanese officials pointed to the looming July 20 Upper House elections and expected losses for the ruling Liberal Democratic Party as factors in postponing the talks.
  • Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has asserted that Japan’s defense budget decisions are solely Tokyo’s prerogative despite persistent US pressure.
  • Washington is making similar defense spending appeals to European and Asia-Pacific allies ahead of next week’s NATO summit, where President Trump will seek commitments of 5% of GDP.