Trump Asks Japan to Tone Down Taiwan Comments Amid China Tensions

U.S. President Donald Trump asked Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to soften her public remarks on Taiwan, the Wall Street Journal reported, citing sources familiar with the discussion.

The request followed comments by Takaichi earlier this month, when she said Japan could consider a military response if China attempted to change the status quo across the Taiwan Strait. Beijing criticized the remarks and accused Japan of provoking regional instability.

According to the report, Trump did not ask Takaichi to withdraw her comments but advised her to reduce the intensity of future statements to avoid further tension. The exchange reflects Washington’s attempt to manage relations with both Tokyo and Beijing during a sensitive period.

• Trump urged Japan to soften rhetoric on Taiwan after Beijing criticism
• Takaichi’s defence comments triggered strong response from China
• Report highlights delicate U.S. balancing act between Tokyo and Beijing​

The report said Trump’s call to Takaichi came soon after a phone conversation with Chinese President Xi Jinping. Xi reiterated China’s position that Taiwan is part of its territory and warned against foreign involvement.

Neither the White House nor the Japanese government has publicly confirmed the reported exchange. Analysts say the development highlights differing tones among allies, even as they share broader strategic concerns about China.

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There has been no indication that Japan will change its stance, and officials in Tokyo have continued to describe peace in the Taiwan Strait as vital to regional stability.