Overview
- In parliament, Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi said she cannot make a definitive statement on retaining the three principles in the forthcoming strategy update, though they remain a guideline for now.
- She has ordered a review of the national security strategy and other core defense documents, initiating a structured policy process without announcing any change.
- Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara declined to elaborate on the government’s stance, saying officials will not make assumptions at this stage.
- Her 2024 book called the ban on introducing nuclear weapons “not realistic,” and Ishin and some LDP lawmakers have argued for allowing U.S. weapons to bolster deterrence.
- Russia said it is watching with concern over the lack of clarity, and an LDP panel separately urged action over a violent social media post by China’s Osaka consul.