The US Department of Defense has asked Japan and Australia to clarify their positions in the event of a potential war with Taiwan. This request was raised during discussions with defense officials from both countries.

Tokyo and Canberra were surprised by this request, as the US does not have an absolute defense commitment to Taiwan. However, the US continues to be the largest supplier of arms to Taiwan.

China has intensified its military pressure on Taiwan while maintaining its sovereignty claims over the island. This situation is escalating tensions between the two sides.

Donald Trump served in defense strategy and force development during his first presidential term. Colby argues that the US military should prioritize strategic competition with China.

Additionally, US-Japan trade relations are strengthening. The total trade volume between the two countries reached approximately 228 billion dollars in 2024.

Trump's variable policies on tariffs may affect global trade. Japan ranks as the seventh largest trading partner of the US.