The United States and Japan conducted joint military drills over the Sea of Japan. The exercise involved two U.S. B-52 strategic bombers and six Japanese F-35 and F-15 fighter jets.
Japan's Joint Staff released a statement indicating the exercise's purpose was to reaffirm the strong resolve between Japan and the U.S. against unilateral changes to the status quo by force. This language is frequently used by Japan in reference to Taiwan, an island claimed by China.
These joint drills followed prior exercises conducted by Chinese and Russian strategic bombers and fighters on Tuesday. These earlier exercises prompted Japan and South Korea to scramble aircraft for monitoring, and South Korea subsequently lodged a diplomatic protest.
Additionally, Japan and China have recently exchanged accusations regarding the alleged targeting of aircraft with weapon radars during Chinese aircraft carrier drills in waters near Japan.
Chinese military activity has been observed to increase around Japan's southwest Okinawa prefecture, which includes islands situated close to Taiwan. Akira Saito, chief of staff of Japan's Maritime Self-Defense Force, noted the unusually active nature and expanded operational regions of China's naval forces.
Japan has expressed concerns that some of these drills may function as a pressure tactic linked to a month-long dispute between Beijing and Tokyo. The dispute originated on November 7 when Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi stated that a Chinese naval blockade of Taiwan could potentially justify the mobilization of Japan's military.
Chinese Foreign Ministry spokesman Guo Jiakun countered these views, stating that China's exercises are routine and consistent with international law. He advised that Japan should not overreact or personalize the situation.
The U.S. administration is currently focused on the implementation of a trade deal reportedly agreed upon by President Trump and Chinese leader Xi Jinping in late October.
While the U.S. initially did not comment on the Japan-China dispute, the State Department later communicated to Reuters that China's actions were not conducive to regional peace and stability, and affirmed its unwavering commitment to Japan as an ally.
Japanese Defense Minister Junichiro Koizumi is scheduled to speak by phone with his U.S. counterpart Pete Hegseth on Friday.