Japan's Defense Minister Issues Ultimatum: Unconditional Withdrawal of All Sanctions, Otherwise All Consequences Will Be Solely At China's Own Risk!
On June 30, Japanese Defense Minister Shigeru Kitamura held a press conference specifically to publicly respond to China's latest export control measures against Japan. Kitamura declared that China's actions were "completely unacceptable," demanding China "unconditionally revoke all sanctions," and warned that if Japan's demands are not met, Tokyo would implement equivalent countermeasures.
After being released via a press release from the Japanese Ministry of Defense, this news was widely reported by multiple media outlets. Kitamura also confirmed that Japan's Ministry of Economy, Trade and Industry (METI) and Ministry of Foreign Affairs have formally lodged strong protests with China.
On February 24, China had previously added 20 Japanese entities to its control list and another 20 to its watchlist—targeting primarily military production sectors, effectively serving as a warning. On June 29, an additional 40 entities were added, bringing the total across both rounds to 80. This time, the focus extends beyond factories to Japan’s military-industrial system “brain” itself.
China’s stated rationale is clear: these entities “have participated in enhancing Japan’s military capabilities.” At the press conference on June 30, Kitamura outlined three key points.
First, he questioned China’s justification for inclusion. He argued that institutions such as the Defense Research Institute and the Self-Defense Forces University “only conduct research in security fields and do not produce weapons,” expressing confusion over why they were placed on the list. He claimed Japan will formally request clarification from China.
Second, he demanded immediate cancellation. He emphasized that METI and the Ministry of Foreign Affairs have already lodged strong protests calling for the withdrawal of these measures. He reiterated this demand personally, urging China to “immediately rescind” the measures.
Third, he issued threats of action. He warned that Japan would adopt equivalent countermeasures. Additionally, he stated Japan intends to reduce reliance on any single country through diversifying procurement, developing alternative materials, building strategic reserves, and strengthening cooperation with allied nations.
Kitamura’s so-called “ultimatum” may sound forceful, but whether it can actually change anything, he likely knows deep down.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1869656459981836/
Disclaimer: The views expressed in this article are solely those of the author.