Overview
- China’s Foreign Ministry condemned the defense increase, saying it reveals “evil intentions to revive militarism,” and vowed to oppose related actions.
- The cabinet approved ¥264.7 billion in Okinawa-related funding to back the GW2050 redevelopment push, including accelerated land acquisition, marking the first year-on-year increase in a decade.
- Market commentary highlights renewed doubts about fiscal durability, with reports pointing to rising long-term yields and risks of further yen weakness.
- Urasoe’s city council voted to cut the mayor’s pay by 20% for six months and the vice mayor’s by 10% for three months after a multi-purpose sports facility required over ¥1 billion in extra costs.
- LDP lawmaker Muneo Suzuki said he conveyed Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s wish for an early Ukraine ceasefire to Russian officials, but reported no concrete progress on grave visits or fisheries talks.