As Europe grapples with the stark reality of financing its own defence, Donald Trump is now setting his sights on Japan, questioning the long-standing security arrangement between Washington and Tokyo.
The President has once again criticised the framework under which the United States is bound to protect Japan, while Japan, he argues, has no reciprocal obligation.
“We have a great relationship with Japan. But we have an interesting deal with Japan that we have to protect them, but they don’t have to protect us,” Trump said on Thursday. “And by the way, they make a fortune with us economically. I actually ask, who makes these deals?”
The remarks, delivered in characteristic off-the-cuff style, come at a delicate moment for U.S.-Japan relations. Tokyo’s trade minister is preparing to travel to Washington in an attempt to secure an exemption from the Biden administration’s impending steel and aluminium tariffs. However, Trump’s rhetoric underscores a deeper and more fundamental question—whether Washington will continue to shoulder the lion’s share of security burdens for its allies without demanding greater commitments in return.
Since the end of the Second World War, Japan’s security has been inextricably linked to the United States. The 1960 U.S.-Japan Security Treaty obliges America to defend Japan in the event of an attack. In return, Japan provides extensive basing rights for U.S. forces, hosting around 54,000 military personnel, predominantly in Okinawa, a strategically critical outpost in the Indo-Pacific region.
Japanese officials were quick to reaffirm their trust in Washington’s commitment to the alliance. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi responded on Friday, stating that Japan relies on the U.S. to uphold its treaty obligations. However, Trump’s comments will undoubtedly reignite discussions in Tokyo over whether Japan must accelerate its military expansion in an increasingly volatile security landscape.
Under Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba, Japan has already taken steps toward bolstering its defence capabilities, increasing military spending and developing new weapons systems. But Washington’s rhetoric suggests that further commitments—both financial and operational—may soon be demanded.
Trump’s grievances extend beyond defence. His broader concern remains America’s trade deficit with Japan, particularly in the automotive sector. Japan’s vehicle exports accounted for nearly a third of all its shipments to the United States last year. The former president has threatened to impose tariffs of 25 percent on foreign auto imports, a move that would significantly impact Japanese manufacturers.
Tokyo is scrambling to respond. Economy, Trade and Industry Minister Yoji Muto is expected to visit Washington next week, though he has yet to confirm specific dates. His primary goal will be to secure Japan’s exemption from the upcoming steel and aluminium tariffs, which Trump has insisted will be enforced from Wednesday without exception.
“It is important to closely study the specific content of these measures and their impact,” Muto said, signalling Tokyo’s concern over the fallout of potential trade restrictions.
Beyond tariffs, Trump has also claimed that Japan is among the nations looking to invest in a multi-trillion-dollar natural gas pipeline project in Alaska. Muto, however, has played down the assertion, noting that the project must be carefully studied for its profitability and feasibility.
Japan’s government is walking a fine diplomatic line. While officials are determined to maintain economic and security ties with the U.S., Trump’s rhetoric reflects a broader shift in Washington’s attitude toward global alliances. The days of unquestioned American support may be numbered, and Japan, like Europe, faces the prospect of increasing its own defence spending and strategic autonomy.
Prime Minister Ishiba acknowledged the challenge in parliament last week, stating, “Japan’s contribution to the U.S. economy is significant. So we want to appeal resolutely, with emotion and logic, to Washington on the tariffs.”
In the meantime, Japan is strengthening other economic partnerships. On Friday, Muto will join Japan’s foreign minister in hosting British officials for economic security talks in Tokyo—an effort to promote free trade and deepen business ties with key allies beyond the United States.
As Trump’s rhetoric continues to shake the foundations of traditional alliances, Japan must now navigate a geopolitical landscape where American support is no longer a given.
The question is not just whether Washington will continue to defend its allies—but whether its allies are prepared to defend themselves.
Image: http://www.defenseimagery.mil/imageRetrieve.action?guid=cf295b631db782e496ece0fbe44a0017ccd954f0&t=2
