The United States has reportedly urged Japan to increase its defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, a move that risks derailing planned high-level security talks between the two allies. According to Kyodo News and the Financial Times, Washington's abrupt demand has prompted Tokyo to consider canceling a 'two-plus-two' meeting of foreign and defense chiefs scheduled for July 1 in Washington.
The proposed increase—nearly double Japan's current defense budget—comes amid ongoing U.S. concerns about burden-sharing under the bilateral security treaty. Elbridge Colby, U.S. Undersecretary of Defense for Policy, reportedly escalated pressure in recent weeks after earlier calls for Japan to reach 3% GDP spending.
This development follows Japan's landmark 2022 decision to raise defense spending to 2% of GDP by 2027, a significant shift for a nation bound by post-war pacifist principles. Analysts suggest the new demand reflects renewed U.S. strategic priorities in Asia, though it risks straining ties with a key regional partner.
The potential cancellation of security talks would mark the first disruption since Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba and U.S. President Donald Trump assumed office. Observers note the situation highlights evolving challenges in maintaining defense coordination amid shifting political and economic priorities.
