Story perspectives

Japan Boosts Defense Budget Amid Rising China Threats

12/20/2025

Center

Japan Strengthens Defense

Japan's defense ministry warned that China's military buildup could threaten Japan's security amid tensions over Taiwan and historical disputes.
Japan will raise its defense budget to over 9 trillion yen for 2026, about US$57.2 billion.
A senior security official suggested Japan consider nuclear weapons due to a deteriorating security environment and threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara reaffirmed Japan's commitment to non-nuclear principles.

Right

Japan Reevaluates Defense

Japan's government is considering revising the Three Non-Nuclear Principles, potentially shifting its military policy.
The Democratic People's Republic of Korea condemned the move.
Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's administration is reportedly considering introducing nuclear submarines to bolster defense.
China rebuked Japan's military stance.
Myanmar and Cambodia reaffirmed support for the one-China principle amid rising tensions.

History

Historical Context

In 1967, Japan established the Three Non-Nuclear Principles, prohibiting the possession, production, and introduction of nuclear weapons, largely influenced by Cold War dynamics and public sentiment against nuclear arms following World War II. As regional tensions rise due to North Korea's threats and China's military expansion, discussions about revising these principles have emerged, potentially reshaping Japan's defense strategy and East Asian security.

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Japan Strengthens Defense

Japan's defense ministry warned that China's military buildup could threaten Japan's security amid tensions over Taiwan and historical disputes.
Japan will raise its defense budget to over 9 trillion yen for 2026, about US$57.2 billion.
A senior security official suggested Japan consider nuclear weapons due to a deteriorating security environment and threats from China, Russia, and North Korea.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara reaffirmed Japan's commitment to non-nuclear principles.

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