Japan Cancels Key U.S. Security Meeting Amid Stalled Trade Talks
Japan abruptly canceled its annual '2+2' security dialogue with the U.S. following a Pentagon demand for increased defense spending. The diplomatic rupture coincides with stalled trade negotiations that have failed to bridge a $68.5 billion goods trade deficit.
Senior officials describe the trade talks as 'in a fog' after multiple rounds failed to produce breakthroughs. The canceled security meeting—traditionally a showcase for alliance strength—reflects growing tensions as Washington pushes Tokyo to raise military expenditures to 3.5% of its budget.