In a surprising twist, U.S. officials have pressed Japan to ramp up its defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, according to media reports. This move could force the cancellation of an important two-plus-two security meeting scheduled in Washington. ⚔️
Sources reveal that the U.S. undersecretary of defense for policy, Elbridge Colby, has been urging Japan for a significant budget hike. This demand comes on the heels of Japan's earlier decision to double its annual defense budget to 2% of GDP by 2027—a dramatic shift for a country long known for its pacifist stance.
The planned meeting, which would have marked the first high-level gathering between Japanese and U.S. officials since the new administrations took charge, now faces cancellation due to the abrupt request. This development raises fresh questions about future security talks and the evolving defense dynamics between the two nations.
For news enthusiasts, professionals, and young explorers alike, this story highlights a critical pivot in international security and economic strategies. Stay tuned as the dialogue unfolds and reshapes global defense policies! 🌏💼
Reference(s):
U.S. presses Japan to raise defense spending to 3.5% of GDP: media
cgtn.com
