Japan Cancels Key US Defense Meeting Amid Spending Dispute

Japan has canceled a high-level meeting with the U.S. after a demand by the Trump administration for increased defense spending. The decision coincides with Japan's upcoming elections and similar pressures from the U.S. on European allies to boost defense budgets.

Japan has scrapped a pivotal meeting with the United States, a key ally, following the Trump administration's demand for increased defense spending. The two nations were set to hold the 2+2 security talks in Washington, involving senior defense and foreign officials from both countries.

The Financial Times reported that the decision followed a U.S. request for Japan to elevate its defense budget to 3.5% of its GDP, a move that Tokyo opposed. Sources also indicated a broader U.S. strategy targeting other Asian allies with defense spending hikes.

This development comes as Japan braces for important elections later this month and as the U.S. continues to pressure NATO allies in Europe to similarly increase defense expenditures.

(With inputs from agencies.)