(A) National Defense and Foreign Policy

By Mike Gallagher – June 11, 2025 – During Mr. Trump’s first 100 days, the administration upgraded the status of U.S. forces in Japan, approved equipment sales for a Japanese hypersonic-missile program and explored joint production of dual-use ships…. Trade and investment, however, have become a sore spot. …A big swing on trade and technology with Japan would reward an ally that is investing aggressively in its own defense and has as much to offer the U.S. as we can offer it. It could also set the gold standard for trade deals with other countries, allowing the Trump administration to transform tactical disagreements with allies over tariffs into a strategic coalition to counter Chinese economic warfare. Read More

By Niharika Mandhana and Daniel Kiss – Dec. 28, 2025“The balance of power in Asia would be tipped quite decisively in favor of China should Taiwan fall into China’s hands,” said Robert Ward, Japan chair at the International Institute for Strategic Studies. …In a conflict, Taiwan’s fate would become quickly intertwined with the U.S.-Japan security alliance. To repel a full-scale attack, Taipei would need America—its main defense partner—to join the fight. To fight effectively, American forces would need Japan.  Read More