Japan’s New Prime Minister Warns Of Chinese Coercion, Backs Stronger U.S. Ties

Japan’s newly elected Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi warned of growing Chinese pressure and pledged closer cooperation with the United States in her first parliamentary speech following a landslide election victory.

Takaichi said China is using coercion to change the regional status quo and argued Japan now faces its most serious security environment since World War II.

She said these challenges require Japan to become stronger, more prosperous, and better prepared militarily.

🇯🇵🇨🇳 Japan’s PM Sanae Takaichi says Tokyo is moving beyond limited pacifism, preparing for long-term military challenges, and sees China as the main source of regional instability.

Lines up perfectly with U.S. push back against Chinese influence.

Source: Bloomberg https://t.co/5mrGM990gD pic.twitter.com/bnwkdiNB79

— Mario Nawfal (@MarioNawfal) February 20, 2026

Her conservative coalition now controls more than two thirds of parliament, clearing the way for higher defense spending expected to reach 2 percent of GDP.

Takaichi also announced plans to revise Japan’s core security documents, ease restrictions on arms exports, and strengthen defense industries.

Analysts said the speech was aimed at reassuring President Donald Trump ahead of talks in Washington, while carefully avoiding a direct confrontation with Beijing.

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