Story perspectives

Trump Urges Japan: Tread Lightly on Taiwan Tensions

11/27/2025

39 7

Summary

Story summary

On November 26, 2021, U.S. President Donald Trump advised Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to avoid provoking China over Taiwan's sovereignty.
This advice followed a call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Xi reiterated China's claim over Taiwan and the importance of U.S.-China cooperation.
Takaichi had previously indicated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could lead to a Japanese military response, which angered China.
Trump's counsel was subtle and did not pressure Takaichi to retract her statements, according to the Wall Street Journal.

1 of 1

Story summary

On November 26, 2021, U.S. President Donald Trump advised Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to avoid provoking China over Taiwan's sovereignty.
This advice followed a call between Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping, where Xi reiterated China's claim over Taiwan and the importance of U.S.-China cooperation.
Takaichi had previously indicated that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could lead to a Japanese military response, which angered China.
Trump's counsel was subtle and did not pressure Takaichi to retract her statements, according to the Wall Street Journal.