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Russia Backs China as Japan Boosts Defense Spending

12/28/2025

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Summary

Story summary

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that Japan is accelerating militarization amid rising tensions with China.
In a December 28 interview, Lavrov said Russia would support China if a Taiwan crisis arises.
He cited Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's defense spending and her warning that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan.
Japan's Defense Ministry said joint China–Russia exercises are meant to show force against Japan.

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Story summary

Russian Foreign Minister Sergei Lavrov warned that Japan is accelerating militarization amid rising tensions with China.
In a December 28 interview, Lavrov said Russia would support China if a Taiwan crisis arises.
He cited Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi's defense spending and her warning that a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan.
Japan's Defense Ministry said joint China–Russia exercises are meant to show force against Japan.