MOSCOW, Russia: Russia is expressing significant concern over the recent moves by the United States and Japan to bolster their military alliance, particularly in light of their plans to overhaul U.S. forces stationed in Japan.
According to Russia’s foreign ministry, the U.S. and Japan’s actions are seen as preparations for a large-scale conflict in the Asia-Pacific region, a sentiment echoed by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Nastasyin during a press briefing.
Nastasyin criticized the joint military activities of the U.S. and Japan, suggesting that these efforts are exacerbating tensions and accelerating the arms race in the region. He indicated that Russia is coordinating with China and North Korea on this issue, though specifics were not detailed.
The U.S. and Japan recently announced a significant restructuring of U.S. Forces Japan. This revamp includes transforming the U.S. forces into a joint force headquarters under U.S. Indo-Pacific Command, aimed at enhancing operational interoperability and bilateral cooperation. U.S. Defence Secretary Lloyd Austin described this move as one of the most significant changes to U.S. Forces Japan since its establishment, marking a major enhancement in military cooperation between the two allies.
The joint statement by the U.S. and Japanese officials also highlighted their concerns about China’s actions, including what they perceive as Beijing’s provocative behavior in the South and East China Seas, its military exercises with Russia, and its expanding nuclear arsenal. They emphasized the need to strengthen their military alliance to counter these challenges.
In parallel, defence leaders from South Korea, the U.S., and Japan have expressed worries about the growing military and economic ties between North Korea and Russia. They denounced North Korea’s recent ballistic missile tests and the diversification of its nuclear delivery systems, which contribute to increased tensions on the Korean Peninsula.
