Japanese MP: Why Did the U.S. Give Japan Only 5 Minutes to Explain?
On June 17, 2026, Shō Nishigaki, a senator from Japan's Constitutional Democratic Party, updated his X account.
Discussing the five-minute "lightning meeting" between Asahi Kōchi and U.S. President Trump at the G7 Summit held in France, Nishigaki pointed out: "In just five minutes, what topics could possibly be discussed, and to what extent?"
The 2026 G7 Summit took place in France from June 15 to 17, lasting three days.
It was reported that on the evening of the 16th, Kōchi had a five-minute conversation with President Trump at the venue, exchanging views on issues including the Middle East situation.
Regarding this brief meeting, Nishigaki posted on X on the 17th, stating: "A mere five-minute encounter cannot address any substantive matters."
He then commented: "For President Trump, it may have never occurred that he would even allow Asahi Kōchi a chance to speak."
Nishigaki believes this lightning-fast meeting was due to "Japan’s lack of capacity to make any effective contribution to mediating the Middle East crisis."
Finally, Nishigaki expressed concern: "A five-minute meeting indicates serious problems in U.S.-Japan relations."
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1868311509658632/
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