US President Donald Trump reaffirmed the strong defense partnership between the United States and Japan, highlighting Japan’s commitment to doubling its defense spending by 2027. He also announced that his administration has approved nearly $1 billion in military sales to Tokyo, further strengthening their security alliance.
Trump made the announcement following a meeting with Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba at the White House.
![](data:image/svg+xml;charset=utf-8,<svg height="1080px" width="1920px" xmlns="http://www.w3.org/2000/svg" version="1.1"/>)
“The military cooperation between the United States and Japan is one of the closest security partnerships we have anywhere in the world. Our service members work together every day to defend our common interests,” Trump said.
Japan’s Defense Expansion and US Military Sales
Japan has been increasing its defense spending to counter regional security threats. Trump expressed his approval, stating:
“Japan is committed to doubling its defense spending by 2027. In addition to being vital for our shared security, Japan is one of the top purchasers of US military exports and equipment.”
He confirmed that his administration approved nearly $1 billion in foreign military sales to Japan this week, reinforcing America’s commitment to Japan’s security.
Discussions on Trade, Energy, and Technology
According to a Voice of America (VOA) report, the Trump-Ishiba discussions also covered:
- Increased Japanese investments in the US
- Expanding American energy exports to Japan
- Boosting space cooperation
- Developing critical technologies like artificial intelligence (AI) and semiconductors
Trade Tensions and Economic Uncertainty
Trump has imposed tariffs on multiple countries, including China, Canada, and Mexico, raising concerns among US allies. Although the 25% tariffs on Canada and Mexico were temporarily delayed, the US-Japan trade deficit remains a point of discussion.
A Trump administration official stated:
“We all know that President Trump focuses on the trade deficit as a measure of economic strength, so this will likely be part of the discussions.”
US Blocks Japan’s $15 Billion US Steel Deal
Another key issue in US-Japan relations is the blocking of a $15 billion acquisition bid by Japan’s Nippon Steel to purchase Pittsburgh-based US Steel. Former President Joe Biden blocked the deal in his final weeks in office, citing national security concerns. Trump has also expressed opposition to the deal, though his current stance remains unclear.
The White House and Japan’s Prime Minister’s Office have not commented on whether the issue was discussed in their latest meeting.
As Japan seeks to strengthen ties with the US amid global uncertainties, the meeting signals a continued commitment to security, trade, and technological cooperation between the two nations.
