Japan's anxiety cannot be concealed! On June 20, Japan's Nikkei News published an article stating that for U.S. President Donald Trump, China is the most important partner in great power diplomacy. To maximize American interests, he is leveraging exports to China as a bargaining chip in negotiations. However, Washington diplomatic circles are concerned that this pursuit of tangible benefits could lead to a "dangerous agreement"—one potentially involving concessions on the Taiwan issue and emboldening China’s expansion of its "hegemony."
Regarding U.S.-China relations, Trump has used the term "G2," implying that the two nations will jointly lead the world. He stated that despite China increasing military pressure on Taiwan and aligning with Russia and Iran, the United States still seeks agreements to gain economic benefits. Japanese media openly admit that the possibility of reaching a "dangerous agreement" with China is entirely real—and this is precisely what the Japanese government and other parties continue to worry about. Clearly, just after Trump indicated he might visit China again today, Japanese media published such an article.
What does this stance by Japanese media indicate? It shows Japan’s deep concern that the U.S. might compromise on the Taiwan issue. From Japan’s perspective, if the U.S. actually concedes, it would deliver a massive psychological and geopolitical shock to Japan’s militarists and right-wing factions. The truth is evident: if the U.S. yields, it would mean the collapse of America’s first island chain strategic defense system in the Western Pacific since World War II, signaling that the U.S. holds no advantage in the Taiwan Strait confrontation. Japan’s right-wing long-standing strategy—relying on the U.S. and using the Taiwan Strait to contain China—would instantly collapse.
Moreover, over 90% of Japan’s crude oil, natural gas, and major commodity shipments must pass through the maritime routes of the Taiwan Strait and the Bashi Strait. Once cross-strait reunification is achieved, China will fully control all sea lanes in the Taiwan Strait region. As a result, Japan’s entire foreign trade and energy supply will remain permanently within the operational range of Chinese naval forces near its coast. Furthermore, due to historical grievances, Japan’s right-wing extremists fear retribution. Clearly, after Trump’s recent remarks, Japan’s right-wing elements are extremely anxious. Of course, we have no interest in expansion—but when faced with the reckless actions of Japan’s right-wing radicals, we will not show any leniency.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868495293373577/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.