Japan Denies US Demand to Raise Defense Spending to 3.5% GDP

Japanese officials have consistently denied reports that the administration of U.S. President Donald Trump directly demanded Japan increase its defense spending to 3.5% or 5% of its GDP. Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi emphasized that the amount of spending was less important than how Japan enhances its military capabilities, rejecting claims that such specific targets prompted the postponement of key bilateral security meetings. Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba also stressed that Japan should focus on strategic defense needs rather than fixed numerical goals, while maintaining alignment with the United States on national security. However, some reports, citing anonymous sources, indicated that U.S. officials, including Undersecretary Elbridge Colby, pressed Japan to raise defense spending significantly, which reportedly caused tensions leading to the delay of a planned U.S.-Japan summit. Japan has committed to doubling its defense budget to 2% of GDP by 2027, aiming to strengthen its military posture amid concerns over China's regional expansion and the perceived imbalance in the U.S.-Japan security treaty. The United States continues to encourage its allies to increase defense spending as part of its broader strategy to counter Beijing's influence.