Japan has expressed concerns about China's military activities, particularly those that indicate potential preparations for a conflict with Taiwan. This warning comes as Japan released its annual Defense White Paper, focusing on security threats posed by neighboring countries, including China, North Korea, and Russia. The paper specifically mentions the increase in Chinese military exercises as a factor that could lead to heightened tensions in the region.
Taiwan has been closely monitoring Chinese air and sea drills, including those involving an aircraft carrier in the nearby Pacific. The ongoing military exercises, including maneuvers in the Taiwan Strait, hint at China's strategic intentions towards Taiwan, with some experts suggesting they could be crucial for any potential invasion. Japan, being in close proximity to Taiwan, has raised concerns about the implications of any conflict spreading to its territory, especially with its hosting of a significant number of American troops and military assets that could be deployed for Taiwan's defense.
Japan's Defense White Paper also highlighted China's plans to expand its nuclear arsenal significantly by 2030. Additionally, the assessment mentioned North Korea's efforts to enhance its nuclear strike capabilities through surveillance satellites and advanced missiles, some of which have the range to target the United States. The document also pointed out Russia's military ties with China and North Korea, including recent collaborations and defense agreements with Pyongyang, raising additional security concerns in the region.