Russian Security Council Secretary Sergei Shoigu has sounded alarms about Japan's military ambitions this week, calling recent moves “a step-by-step shift toward militarism” that could reshape Asia's geopolitical chessboard. 🎯
Defense Budgets & NATO Parallels
Shoigu highlighted Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s push to boost Japan’s defense spending to 2% of GDP – matching NATO’s current benchmark. But here’s the twist: that target might soon jump to 5% under Donald Trump’s renewed U.S. presidency, creating a potential domino effect. 💸
Missiles and Military Drills 💥
The Russian official also raised eyebrows about U.S.-Japan military exercises, warning: “We can’t ignore the missiles left behind after drills – including plans to arm Japanese ships.” Critics argue this collaboration blurs post-WWII pacifist principles established in Japan’s constitution.
Why It Matters Now
With regional tensions simmering over Taiwan and the South China Sea, Shoigu’s comments spotlight growing unease about Asia’s security landscape. As one Tokyo analyst put it: “When Russia and NATO benchmarks dominate the conversation, everyone starts watching the radar. 🛩️”
