Japan faces diplomatic dilemma amid joint pressure from nuclear neighbors

Japan is facing growing security pressure from nuclear-armed neighbours as its relations with Russia reach their lowest point in decades. Russia’s war in Ukraine has deepened the rift with Tokyo, while closer cooperation among Russia, China and North Korea adds to Japan’s concerns about the regional balance of power. Japan is seeking stronger support from the United States, its principal security ally.

The diplomatic dilemma is how to reinforce Japan’s defences and its alliance with Washington while managing tensions with its neighbours. Some in Japan worry that the American support Tokyo wants may not be forthcoming. The debate also sits alongside Japan’s longstanding opposition to nuclear weapons and its reliance on the US nuclear deterrent, making decisions about security policy particularly sensitive.