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U.S. Backs Japan's Urgent Military Buildup Amid Threats

10/30/2025

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Summary

Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Tokyo and praised Japan's plan to accelerate military buildup and raise defense spending to 2% of GDP two years ahead of schedule.
He stressed the urgency of addressing threats from China and highlighted the importance of the U.S.–Japan alliance.
Japan is responding to tensions from North Korea and Russia by advancing its military capabilities, marking a shift from postwar pacifism.

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Story summary

U.S. Defense Secretary Pete Hegseth visited Tokyo and praised Japan's plan to accelerate military buildup and raise defense spending to 2% of GDP two years ahead of schedule.
He stressed the urgency of addressing threats from China and highlighted the importance of the U.S.–Japan alliance.
Japan is responding to tensions from North Korea and Russia by advancing its military capabilities, marking a shift from postwar pacifism.