Asia-Pacific, Europe Raise Concerns Over Growing China Military, Security Threats

Japan has identified China as the greatest strategic challenge to its national security in its recently released 2025 Defense White Paper, citing China's expanding military presence and aggressive maritime activities, especially near disputed territories like the Senkaku Islands. The report highlights China's rapid military modernization, growing naval operations near Japanese waters, and increasing cooperation with Russia and North Korea, which collectively threaten the regional security environment. Japan's Defense Minister and Prime Minister have emphasized the severity of this threat, prompting Japan to reinterpret its constitution for collective self-defense and strengthen ties with the United States and other allies. Similarly, France's 2025 National Strategic Review underscores China's escalating military exercises around Taiwan, its expanding nuclear arsenal, and use of hybrid warfare tactics, while criticizing the unpredictability of U.S. security commitments under President Donald Trump. Meanwhile, China’s Foreign Ministry rejects allegations of malicious competition or attempts to unseat the U.S., framing its foreign policy as peaceful and urging the U.S. to adopt a more objective view of China-U.S. relations. These developments reflect rising tensions in the Asia-Pacific, highlighting China’s assertive posture and the growing international concern over its military ambitions and regional influence.