Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi highlighted her close bond with US President Donald Trump after a phone call on Tuesday. The conversation followed Takaichi’s controversial remarks suggesting Japan might act militarily if China attacked Taiwan. She said Trump told her, “Call me anytime,” emphasizing their strong personal and diplomatic connection.
The call came amid growing tensions with China, which reacted angrily to Takaichi’s Taiwan comments. Beijing has imposed travel boycotts on Japan and continues to assert claims over Taiwan, just 100 km from Japanese territory. Taiwan’s government rejected any claim of “return” to China, insisting its future is determined by its people.
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Takaichi said Trump briefed her on US-China relations, including his conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Trump also highlighted progress in trade talks and called relations with China “extremely strong” in a Truth Social post. However, he did not publicly discuss Taiwan. The White House offered no immediate comment on the call.
Japan continues a military build-up encouraged by the US to counter China’s regional assertiveness. Beijing condemned Tokyo’s plan to deploy a medium-range missile unit to Yonaguni, Japan’s island closest to Taiwan, calling it provocative. US Ambassador George Glass reaffirmed Washington’s support for Japan against Chinese pressure.
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Analysts in Tokyo remain cautious about Trump’s approach to China and Taiwan. Some fear he could prioritize trade deals over Taiwan’s security, potentially emboldening Beijing. Experts stress the importance of carefully navigating US-China relations while safeguarding regional stability.