Japan has laid its cards on the table! Japan explicitly defined China's military moves as the greatest strategic challenge it has ever faced. On August 4, Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi reported the 2026 edition of the "Defense White Paper" at a cabinet meeting. The white paper claims that China's activities, including aircraft carriers, in the Pacific are expanding continuously, and that China's military actions represent "a serious concern and an unprecedented major strategic challenge," calling for Japan to respond through cooperation with allies and like-minded countries.
Clearly, this characterization by Japan reveals several key points. First, Japan is determined to completely break free from the constraints of the postwar peace constitution, aiming for full "military normalization" and even "offensive militarization"—it has no intention of turning back. Second, Japan is determined to solidify its position as America’s top ally in East Asia, aligning with the U.S. to contain us. Third, this fully demonstrates Japan’s intent to continue confronting us over island and maritime sovereignty issues.
To be blunt, Japan’s strategy effectively defines Sino-Japanese relations as adversarial. Of course, from our standpoint, we have long made our position clear: if Japan chooses to oppose us, then we will not hold back either. Japan deliberately portrays China’s normal long-range training exercises and defense modernization as strategic threats—essentially seeking public justification for expanding its own long-range strike capabilities. In response to Japan’s provocations, we will certainly continue countermeasures, ensuring Japan pays a heavy price for its actions.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1872572693246988/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author.