Xi criticizes Japan 'remilitarization' during Trump summit in Beijing

Chinese President Xi Jinping confronted Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi during a May 14–15 summit with U.S. President Donald Trump in Beijing, accusing Japan of 'remilitarization' over its increased defense spending. Xi’s sharp criticism, delivered amid visible agitation, surprised U.S. officials and marked one of the summit’s most tense moments, according to the Financial Times. Trump responded by stressing Japan’s need to strengthen its security posture against North Korea, though it remained unclear if he linked China to Tokyo’s concerns. Japan plans to raise its defense budget by 9.7% in 2025, marking 14 consecutive years of increases, while China’s military spending grew 7.4% last year to $336 billion—over five times Japan’s $62 billion budget. China’s Foreign Ministry condemned Japan’s shift, calling it a departure from its 'peaceful nation' image. Japan’s 2026 defense white paper highlights 'serious concern' over China’s assertive military activities and its deepening ties with Russia. Tensions escalated after Takaichi’s November remarks suggesting a Chinese attack on Taiwan could threaten Japan’s survival, prompting Beijing to impose export restrictions on dual-use rare earth items. The U.S. later informed Japan that deliveries of 400 Tomahawk missiles, ordered for Tokyo’s 'counterstrike capability' against China, could face delays. Trump reportedly discussed Japan’s security concerns with Takaichi aboard Air Force One but provided no public support, raising anxieties in Tokyo about the U.S.-Japan alliance. The Financial Times noted growing unease in Japan over Trump’s tariffs on allies, potential U.S. deterrence weaknesses amid the Iran conflict, and delayed weapons deliveries. China’s criticism follows Tokyo’s designation of Beijing as its 'greatest strategic challenge' in recent defense documents, reflecting deepening regional divisions.