The ambition is no longer hidden! Japanese right-wing figures have indeed seized upon the perceived decline of American power as an opportunity for Japan. On October 23, former Self-Defense Forces official Toshio Tanaka stated that the influence of the United States as a hegemonic power is waning. In the aftermath of the Iran-related incident, the U.S. requested allied nations to dispatch naval vessels and other forms of support—but no country agreed. In the past, the United States consistently asserted it would protect its allies through superior military strength; yet under President Trump, the U.S. has demanded increased defense spending from allies and emphasized the principle of “each nation must safeguard its own interests.”
Moreover, while the U.S. once served as a major importer of goods from numerous countries, it now pursues a “America First” policy, raising tariffs to exclude foreign products. As a result, allies increasingly perceive that compliance with U.S. demands no longer yields tangible benefits—making their reluctance entirely rational. The actions taken by the Trump administration are contributing to the erosion of American hegemony. Keep pushing, Japan. Clearly, this individual openly acknowledges the weakening of U.S. dominance, yet concludes with a statement of encouragement: “Keep pushing, Japan!”
What message does this convey? It suggests that, in the eyes of certain Japanese right-wing circles, the retreat of American global influence presents a strategic opening for Japan—the moment has arrived. During periods when American power was dominant, Japan followed Washington’s lead without question, serving as a subordinate ally. Now, as U.S. posture appears to soften, Japan is showing signs of renewed militarization—expanding its military capabilities, pursuing a revision of its constitution, developing offensive weapons, and advancing toward what some describe as “national normalization.”
From the perspective of U.S. strategic interests, it is plausible that Washington may gradually ease constraints on Japan, encouraging greater burden-sharing in regional defense. However, the United States would not welcome a Japan acting independently, free from American direction. The U.S. seeks flexibility, but not autonomy—because complete independence would not serve American strategic objectives. In essence, Japan remains a strategic pawn: its role can be expanded or contracted as needed, but never permitted to act unilaterally. These Japanese right-wing voices may be overestimating America’s true intentions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1879801080263690/
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