News that nobody is paying attention to, but, after decades of heated debate, Japan for the first time since the war finally is moving to increase military expenditure past the 1% mark of GDP. This is HUGE news in Japan, and has a lot of people worried. There could be a backlash against Abe, its biggest proponent. Trump is already extremely unpopular in Japan. And this putting the country in jeopardy by this idiotic yapping at Kim Jong Un is only going to make things worse for him. There is no more sensitive issue here, as you can imagine, than the use of nuclear weapons.
1
Isn't it true that Japan (and South Korea and Germany, for that matter), with some of the world's top engineers, could put a nuclear device together from scratch (and plutonium from their peaceful nuclear projects) in a matter of days?
They could do it, but not in days.
1
Trump, and certain 'conservatives', seem to not understand Teddy Roosevelt's dictum 'Speak softly and carry a big stick.' IF the US HAS to attack North Korea, we should just do so, with an absolute minimum of mouthing off. But we do not have to do so, and we should not do so, because this situation is a game of chess with China - it is NOT a game of rock 'em sock 'em robots between Trump and China's barking little dog. America's influence in Asia is important, and we should not be staking it on a chess game wherein we focus on one of our opponent's pawns.
4
Very well put. We have numerous issues with China which is a world power now. Like it or not. Where is the discussion of engaging China on a multi-issue basis? We have things they want just as they have things we want. China would be very happy to deliver Fat Boy's scalp in exchange for appropriate inducements from us. And, of course one of the things China does not want is a heavily militarized SK or the US Navy in their backyard on a permanent basis with all the surveillance possibilities that implies.
This is the perfect storm for trump enabling him to raise a false flag operation aimed at distancing himself from his Russian overlords in the face of increasing public and congressional scrutiny in regards to malfeasance and the 2016 elections. That it's absoluting lethal stuff he's recklessly playing with doesn't concern him one bit. Everything trump does is a stunt with a very calculated eventual outcome. His actions are not 'normal' or benevolent in any way. He's an evil, manipulative man.
4
Shallow analysis and reporting in several ways. First, after the election, Abe saw himself as one of Putin and Trump's peers and tried to join the team. Abe isn't white so failed in that attempt, but he got credit for maneuvering Japan out of Trump's target area. Second, Abe's plunge in the polls is due almost entirely to corruption involving a couple right-wing private schools, former Defense Minister Inada's coverup of a PKO "missing" report (that was later "found") and Abe's ramming a major counter conspiracy law through the Diet.
The vast majority of the Japanese public have very different opinions on North Korea and Japanese defense policy in general than Abe and his hawkish Liberal Democrats (LDP). "Only about a third of Japanese voters" support Abe's push for "consitutional changes" that would "roll back restrictions on the military". Why? That's also clear from the Japanese polls but not reported here. The Japanese don't want constitutional restrictions on their military removed because they have clearly stated they want to avoid getting any more involved than they have to in the endless pointless and idiotic wars the US has been prosecuting over the last 30 years. Not surprisingly a lot of the real "push" to change the Japanese constitution has come from the US particuarly in the context of raising tensions with China which once again the vast majority of Japanes want nothing to do with. Not enough reporting has been done on this. The irony of so much of US foreign policy is that while it purports to promote democracy the policies it often wants foreign governments to follow are not supported by the local population.
3
JAPAN'S ABE Is in an untenable position, as Trump's ability to form a cooperative line of communication with anyone about anything is severely impaired to nonexistent. Trump as a young child would start food fights at birthday parties. His behavior currently is tantamount to his foreign policy taking the form of a food fight. Trump shows severe impairment of language, memory and executive functions. He must be removed from office immediately by the 25th Amendment.
2
Japan, like South Korea, needs a nuclear deterrent. If North Korea can target Seattle, relying on the US is not enough. Japan and South Korea being able to stand on their own two feet is also good for the US, which can then deal with the threat closer to home, Cuba and its predatory takeover of Venezuela. And the US also needs to prepare for a possible war, soon, between China and India.
I believe the American people are beginning to recognize the irrational hatred of Trump by the "progressive" media, and that it will be their downfall. I also believe that will be a good outcome, despite my enjoyment at ridiculing them.
Analyst Hideshi Takesada is quoted as voicing "concern about whether the U.S. is really thinking about the security of Japan and South Korea."
As long as "the U.S." means Donald Trump, it certainly is not doing so. Trump is incapable of thinking beyond his pride, anger, and other internal considerations.
However, Prime Minister Abe may be uniquely well placed to sway President Trump on his approach to North Korea, if it isn't too late. He could introduce information about the probable consequences of a strike against North Korea -- introduce it, that is, from *outside* Trump's circle, outside the US news media, outside the US itself. It would then be among those things "most people don't know" which Trump can treat as his own privileged information. Accepting it would not mean vindicating any of the Americans who have tried to enlighten him.
I'm serious. A picture of the devastation to be expected, painted in human terms by an outsider of high standing, might really enable Trump to turn away from the threat of war and seek the high ground of mercy.
As long as "the U.S." means Donald Trump, it certainly is not doing so. Trump is incapable of thinking beyond his pride, anger, and other internal considerations.
However, Prime Minister Abe may be uniquely well placed to sway President Trump on his approach to North Korea, if it isn't too late. He could introduce information about the probable consequences of a strike against North Korea -- introduce it, that is, from *outside* Trump's circle, outside the US news media, outside the US itself. It would then be among those things "most people don't know" which Trump can treat as his own privileged information. Accepting it would not mean vindicating any of the Americans who have tried to enlighten him.
I'm serious. A picture of the devastation to be expected, painted in human terms by an outsider of high standing, might really enable Trump to turn away from the threat of war and seek the high ground of mercy.
The Japanese prospered under the protection of the US 7th fleet. The Japanese SDF should not be expanded to include capabilities that can preemptively strike North Korea. A Japan with enhanced military capabilities, in an environment of growing regional insecurity (e.g. conflicts with China over economic maritime zones, senkaku islands, and North Korean nuclear development) is a nightmare scenario of destabilization.
It is thanks to the US navy and air force that the East-Asian region is relatively stable. If Japan builds up its military, and because Japan has unresolved history with the Chinese and Koreans, the East-Asian region will arguably be less secure and military build-up will undermine regional economic integration and interdependence.
It is thanks to the US navy and air force that the East-Asian region is relatively stable. If Japan builds up its military, and because Japan has unresolved history with the Chinese and Koreans, the East-Asian region will arguably be less secure and military build-up will undermine regional economic integration and interdependence.
1
well stated!
There are faint echoes of the prelude to the Korean war here. A case could be made that part of the motivation for the north to attack at that time was the perceived threat from the south. A perception only strengthened by the provocations at the border committed by the south and the bellicose language (sic!) of then president Syngman Rhee. Obviously, North Korea sees the military exercises at their borders as a provocation and a threat. Another echo of the past is China's position; it wants no conflict but will act if the US attacks North Korea first. They did act when MacArthur ignored Zhou Enlai's warning.
What is required is a level-headed attitude to all of this. The first step to a possible defusion is understanding where the opponent comes from. Unfortunately, in the current mood, where even in the US people are unwilling or unable to try to understand the other party, that is not an option. So, in the words of George Santayana: 'Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.'
What is required is a level-headed attitude to all of this. The first step to a possible defusion is understanding where the opponent comes from. Unfortunately, in the current mood, where even in the US people are unwilling or unable to try to understand the other party, that is not an option. So, in the words of George Santayana: 'Those who cannot remember the past are condemned to repeat it.'
Are our leaders and journalists so foolish as to think that bonding means anything? Would the leaders of China be swayed by what a nice guy Trump is? How graceful his golf swing is? That he fed them well at one of his properties?
Can the NYT please elevate the discussion by eliminating bonding as a serious word in discussions of national security?
Can the NYT please elevate the discussion by eliminating bonding as a serious word in discussions of national security?
Trump may be deflecting attention from Mueller's
investigation. He's all show, all about himself, and
without the personal capability to think about serious consequences in Asia. What does it mean to think of nuclear
capability as a bargaining chip in a "deal?" What does the
word "win" mean? In Asia, Syria, Afghanistan? Is any
"win" permanent? Ask Napoleon. And others.
Nukes mean we can play with guerrila warfare, war undeclared, and profit the contractors like
Halliburton, or Blackwater, and shamefully keep it at that.
Linus Pauling so long ago said nukes mean the end of
World Wars. But when it comes close to idiots thinking about pushing the BIG button because they are personally insulted, we have to control their impulses. These two cunning inheritors of money and power, who lack morality, never mind the experience and ethics need to be contained.
investigation. He's all show, all about himself, and
without the personal capability to think about serious consequences in Asia. What does it mean to think of nuclear
capability as a bargaining chip in a "deal?" What does the
word "win" mean? In Asia, Syria, Afghanistan? Is any
"win" permanent? Ask Napoleon. And others.
Nukes mean we can play with guerrila warfare, war undeclared, and profit the contractors like
Halliburton, or Blackwater, and shamefully keep it at that.
Linus Pauling so long ago said nukes mean the end of
World Wars. But when it comes close to idiots thinking about pushing the BIG button because they are personally insulted, we have to control their impulses. These two cunning inheritors of money and power, who lack morality, never mind the experience and ethics need to be contained.
Japan's military is designed primarily for defensive, not offensive, action. But this is not "In keeping with the pacifist Constitution." The Japanese constitution states, "land, sea, and air forces, as well as other war potential, will never be maintained." It makes no distinction whatever between offensive and defensive forces.
The Japanese government has for many years pretended that the constitution distinguishes between offensive and defensive forces.
The Japanese government has for many years pretended that the constitution distinguishes between offensive and defensive forces.
3
I was briefly in South Korea in April and asked some people I met if they felt ongoing anxiety about the threat from the north. They told me they had grown used to Kim Jong Un's saber rattling over the yearrs and didn't think about it much. That was the response I got in April, but after Trump's "fire and fury" rhetoric, I suspect I might get a different answer now.
1
Regarding the last sentence, you can be certain Donald Trump is thinking only of himself.
That sounds more like a child than an adult, you say. But that's what we've got with Trump.
That sounds more like a child than an adult, you say. But that's what we've got with Trump.
3
"During the campaign, Mr. Trump sometimes suggested he would scale back the United States’ global military commitments...."
To threaten the withdrawal of longstanding support for our staunchest allies even as you go shooting your mouth off in ways that directly threaten their safety is the most....well...Trump-like of behavior.
To threaten the withdrawal of longstanding support for our staunchest allies even as you go shooting your mouth off in ways that directly threaten their safety is the most....well...Trump-like of behavior.
4
Notably Kim did not threaten a missile demonstration to Guam, his army suggested it. Now the Great Marshal of the DPRK can simply suspend the proposal - in the cause of international peace and harmony, you understand.
And what is left - a Chinese guarantee of his regime - just 2 weeks before the massive annual US-SK military decapitation exercises (that could so easily have turned real). Kim must be very pleased.
The Americans now look like unstable threatening fools, the Chinese like a superpower, and Donald Trump who tried to play the unique bellicose style of North Korean 'diplomacy', looks like he just got schooled.
And what is left - a Chinese guarantee of his regime - just 2 weeks before the massive annual US-SK military decapitation exercises (that could so easily have turned real). Kim must be very pleased.
The Americans now look like unstable threatening fools, the Chinese like a superpower, and Donald Trump who tried to play the unique bellicose style of North Korean 'diplomacy', looks like he just got schooled.
3
Wait! I thought we were going to invade Venezuela instead. You know, maybe keep the oil. What's in North Korea that is worth keeping? Guam, South Korea and Japan, you are on your own.
2
Give me a break - we didn`t keep to oil in Iraq.
We really do believe that democracy is a gift worth giving to other countries.
We really do believe that democracy is a gift worth giving to other countries.
I guess you haven't listened to Trump closely enough. He has no problem plundering from others - in business and in war. He wanted us to take the oil in Syria, from ISIS as the excuse, and that we should have taken the oil in Iraq after W-Cheney invaded. Did you miss his military threat against Venezuela? I'm sorry my Sarcasm with the truth went over your head, Amy.
ur dreaming
This piece ignores that Japan, especially Abe, has called for a strong US response. A missile traveling to Guam would need to travel over Japan, an act of war. If this happens and the US does nothing, it will likely force Japan to rewrite its constitution and perhaps abandon its pledge not to develop nuclear weapons. If the US honors its alliance, then it will need to strike N. Korea and perhaps start a war that will kill millions. There is no good solution to this but Trump pointing out, in yes, needlessly explosive language, what the US has committed itself to, is not the cause of this crisis. N. Korea threatening to fire those missiles is.
3
President Trump is directly calling N. Korea's bluff, but indirectly placing Japan, China, Russia, Canada, Australia -- all now within Hwasong-14's range (6,500 miles) -- on notice.
N. Korea can now blackmail and arm twist them, or even traffic their miniaturized nuclear weapons to terror actors to overcome sanctions.
Japan and Australia are reacting trustfully. China is finding its duplicity unveiled.
President Trump is playing his hand, fully knowing that they need to come around to support him -- because none of them will allow the world power equation to change.
N. Korea can now blackmail and arm twist them, or even traffic their miniaturized nuclear weapons to terror actors to overcome sanctions.
Japan and Australia are reacting trustfully. China is finding its duplicity unveiled.
President Trump is playing his hand, fully knowing that they need to come around to support him -- because none of them will allow the world power equation to change.
1
What Donald Trump and his administration has obviously failed to notice, is Japan most recently honored the anniversary of the deaths of hundreds of thousands civilians, who lost their lives due to the bombings in both Hiroshima and Nagasaki.
A shameful historical oversight, given the sensitivity of the continued conflict with North Korea, and the outcome it might have on U.S. allies Japan, and South Korea.
No way to mark an anniversay as meaningful and portentous as this -- especially in light that it could all very well happen again, but with far more catastrophic results.
AMERICA. Wake-up.
A shameful historical oversight, given the sensitivity of the continued conflict with North Korea, and the outcome it might have on U.S. allies Japan, and South Korea.
No way to mark an anniversay as meaningful and portentous as this -- especially in light that it could all very well happen again, but with far more catastrophic results.
AMERICA. Wake-up.
3
I wonder whether NYT could bear to accept the premise that had someone stood up to Hitler, perhaps the loss of millions of lives could have been averted. Acquiescence led to the holocaust and horrific human suffering that was only ended by the eventual use of fury and fire in both Germany and Japan like the world had never witnessed.
I've observed that media have all but state that it is ok if North Korea fire missiles by South Korean and Japanese air space and directed exactly toward the US territory, Guam.
What is Guam to us? Guam is a US territory. People born in Guam are American citizens. Major US military installations are located in Guam.... with a purpose of coming to the aid of our allies in eastern Asia, and keeping the peace.
Is it really ok with the NYT if North Korea make overt and aggressive action by firing its missiles toward Guam?
It would a wonton act of aggression that must be addressed with a measured response... in order to preserve the peace and way of life.
Old Jimma
I've observed that media have all but state that it is ok if North Korea fire missiles by South Korean and Japanese air space and directed exactly toward the US territory, Guam.
What is Guam to us? Guam is a US territory. People born in Guam are American citizens. Major US military installations are located in Guam.... with a purpose of coming to the aid of our allies in eastern Asia, and keeping the peace.
Is it really ok with the NYT if North Korea make overt and aggressive action by firing its missiles toward Guam?
It would a wonton act of aggression that must be addressed with a measured response... in order to preserve the peace and way of life.
Old Jimma
4
Sadly, because it must first and foremost do whatever it can to paint Trump in a negative light, the New York Times is not reliable, and cannot be taken seriously, on serious issues like this. North Korea's quest to expand its nuclear weapons and long range missiles, and its constant threats and fiery rhetoric towards its neighbors and their allies, have been escalating despite continual diplomatic capitulation through at least the last three presidencies of the United States. Clinton, Bush and Obama all sought to appease North Korea as a means of restraining its nuclear efforts, but NK has only used that as leverage to get what it wants, and then continue forward with the same behavior.
Obama's attempt to appease and directly buy off Iran was a step beyond what previous administrations had done, going from impotence to outright foolishness. But his folly had the effect of bringing Israel and its Sunni neighbors closer together, so it may have had some positive effects despite Obama's disastrous intentions.
Obama's attempt to appease and directly buy off Iran was a step beyond what previous administrations had done, going from impotence to outright foolishness. But his folly had the effect of bringing Israel and its Sunni neighbors closer together, so it may have had some positive effects despite Obama's disastrous intentions.
7
So a massive strike on NK a few years ago would have been the right idea? Or were you just trying to make the point that Obama was stupid on Iran?
Today Trump is proclaiming that the Japanese are "very impressed" with his handling of NK. Unlikely. His arrogance and hubris are traits that will not only bring him down, but the rest of us with him. He's a disaster. That said, it isn't hard to paint Trump in a negative light - it's all on display to judge for oneself with every tweet, with every idiotic utterance and word salad interview. My perceptions are direct from the man himself - and they are decidedly negative.
1
Untrue. I live here and am currently on vacation, traveling off-the-beaten path parts of Japan. This topic comes up whenever a couple of beers have been poured. What I`ve found talking to people in these conservative areas is general support for the LDP, but not universal support for Abe's policies, and a strong sense that Trump is being reckless and needlessly provocative with the North - something that Japan, China, and the South know how to avoid - and in so doing tying Abe's hands politically and limiting his options militarily. They fear that because Trump is so taciturn that Abe will have no choice but to follow to keep US forces on their side, even if the people strongly prefer not to go to war.
1
Abe has long pushed to return Japan to aggressive militarism to counter Chinese power.
Of course, given that Japanese leaders committed genocide in China that rivals the Holocaust, Chinese leaders will aggressively respond to the Japanese threat.
Given that Japan is the oldest country in the world with one of the lowest birth rates on the planet, and is the only country to have had thousands of civilians slaughtered in a nuclear attack, the Japanese had better think long and hard before they commit to aggressive militarism.
Of course, given that Japanese leaders committed genocide in China that rivals the Holocaust, Chinese leaders will aggressively respond to the Japanese threat.
Given that Japan is the oldest country in the world with one of the lowest birth rates on the planet, and is the only country to have had thousands of civilians slaughtered in a nuclear attack, the Japanese had better think long and hard before they commit to aggressive militarism.
3
All of this must make for good reading in North Korea.
Translators must be working overtime so that the NK leaders can get their "rush" from seeing the amount of media attention they are getting in the West. For example, this article makes a strong case for both Japan and SK being perceived as militarily weaker than NK. For NK, rich propaganda indeed.
Translators must be working overtime so that the NK leaders can get their "rush" from seeing the amount of media attention they are getting in the West. For example, this article makes a strong case for both Japan and SK being perceived as militarily weaker than NK. For NK, rich propaganda indeed.
2
Nobody should report what the president said?
It's always unrequited love, with Trump. Every transaction and relationship, is conditional. And who always determines those conditions???
He a user AND abuser. You've been warned, repeatedly. Beware.
He a user AND abuser. You've been warned, repeatedly. Beware.
10
Should Trump initiate the use of nuclear weapons I would expect him to be hauled to the Hague and the International Court of Justice on war criminal charges.
He can be arrested in Scotland or elsewhere on his travels.
He can be arrested in Scotland or elsewhere on his travels.
11
Right. Just like George Bush was arrested and tried for his illegal invasion of Iraq.
But let's first get him out of power by starting with the 25th amendment – "their written declaration that the president is unable to discharge the powers and duties of his office".
1
We keep thinking that Kim is going to launch missiles at the US mainland or Guam and that one of them might be armed with nuclear war head. But what if he is trying to provoke Trump into striking first, and has a bomb already in place in a rusted trawler of the coast of NYC or Washington, DC ready to blast away the capital or 10,000,000 New Yorkers.
1
Abe is really in trouble with the Japanese citizenry about this.
The NYT does
not truly report how shaky his government is over his linkage with Trump, who is viewed as a madman with nuclear weapons by the most conservative of Japanese, who liked to think of themselves as allies and friends of the former United States.
No more. If Abe wants to stay in power, he will now have to accede to the majority wish to remove the former US naval base at Yokosuka and the Marine base occupying Okinawa. That's what the majority of Japanese have wanted for quite a while, though you wouldn't know it from mainstream reporting.
Trump's big stupid mouth and big talk again get him and the former US in trouble, this time with irrevocable consequences.
The NYT does
not truly report how shaky his government is over his linkage with Trump, who is viewed as a madman with nuclear weapons by the most conservative of Japanese, who liked to think of themselves as allies and friends of the former United States.
No more. If Abe wants to stay in power, he will now have to accede to the majority wish to remove the former US naval base at Yokosuka and the Marine base occupying Okinawa. That's what the majority of Japanese have wanted for quite a while, though you wouldn't know it from mainstream reporting.
Trump's big stupid mouth and big talk again get him and the former US in trouble, this time with irrevocable consequences.
14
" If Abe wants to stay in power, he will now have to accede to the majority wish to remove the former US naval base at Yokosuka and the Marine base occupying Okinawa. That's what the majority of Japanese have wanted for quite a while" - The truth of your claim is what Yukio Hatoyama bet everything on when his DPJ party beat the LDP in 2009. He concentrated single mindedly on getting the US out of Okinawa, ignoring all the more complicated and diffucult party platform promises he and the DJP had made.
But it turned out that what almost all Japanese actually agreed on was actually that they didn't want US bases near THEIR home. It turned out that the majority outside of Okinawa wanted to continue the US alliance as is, with troops "somewhere" in Japan. Just because people complain about the situation they are in doesn't mean they don't want to be in that situation --- compared to the alternatives. That issue turned on Hatoyama and he resigned with in a year - only a small minority actually want to break with the US. Did you miss the news at that time about the government approved anti Japanese riots in China which lasted for several days and destroyed hundreds of millions of dollars worth of property associated with Japanese companies in China?
Forget the idea of Japan switching - there is more potential in the idea of all parties getting along better.
IMHO a solution is to share the burden of troop hosting more fairly over all of Japan.
But it turned out that what almost all Japanese actually agreed on was actually that they didn't want US bases near THEIR home. It turned out that the majority outside of Okinawa wanted to continue the US alliance as is, with troops "somewhere" in Japan. Just because people complain about the situation they are in doesn't mean they don't want to be in that situation --- compared to the alternatives. That issue turned on Hatoyama and he resigned with in a year - only a small minority actually want to break with the US. Did you miss the news at that time about the government approved anti Japanese riots in China which lasted for several days and destroyed hundreds of millions of dollars worth of property associated with Japanese companies in China?
Forget the idea of Japan switching - there is more potential in the idea of all parties getting along better.
IMHO a solution is to share the burden of troop hosting more fairly over all of Japan.
Abe just replaced his secretary of defense and will likely call a snap election in October, which is widely seen as a referendum on his plans to revise the constitution to allow the JSDF to operate overseas, not just in a defensive posture. With the opposition in typical disarray, the LDP is expected to win in the countryside and lose in the cities. The vote disparity between rural and urban regions approximates that of the US - as much as 6 to 1 in favor of rural areas. We are stuck w/ Abe unless he succumbs to a scandal, a couple of which are on the boil.
Do Americans understand how violently Koreans, including North Koreans fear (and in many cases hate) Japan. The United States thinks that this is always about us, but Japan is the closest ally in the line of fire. Moreover, if the United States were to launch a nuclear weapon on North Korea, the nuclear fallout would blow right over Japan. The Japanese have all to much experience with nuclear pollution. Just the possibility of a North Korean threat to Japan could cost Prime Minister Abe his career.
17
Trump is out to make enemies with all countries around the world, except Russia.
He doesn't care about relationships (look at his numerous wives). He doesn't care about fairness (look at all those he has ripped off through his businesses). He doesn't care about his choice of people who are suppose to help and advise him (enter Flynn, Spicer, Sparamucci, Manafort, now Sessions and McConnell, and others). He doesn't care about the environment (he delights in signing those deregulation laws). He doesn't care about healthcare (he chose Tom Price - but outwardly chastises Mitch).
There are a lot of things he doesn't care about.
You think Japan is any different? Why would it be? He has insulted Canada, Britain, Germany, Australia, and others.
If Putin has any thoughts for Donald, maybe he needs to let him know. The one foreign person that makes a difference to Trump. And for Putin, he has Donald right where he wants him.
He doesn't care about relationships (look at his numerous wives). He doesn't care about fairness (look at all those he has ripped off through his businesses). He doesn't care about his choice of people who are suppose to help and advise him (enter Flynn, Spicer, Sparamucci, Manafort, now Sessions and McConnell, and others). He doesn't care about the environment (he delights in signing those deregulation laws). He doesn't care about healthcare (he chose Tom Price - but outwardly chastises Mitch).
There are a lot of things he doesn't care about.
You think Japan is any different? Why would it be? He has insulted Canada, Britain, Germany, Australia, and others.
If Putin has any thoughts for Donald, maybe he needs to let him know. The one foreign person that makes a difference to Trump. And for Putin, he has Donald right where he wants him.
30
It's all transactional with the Trumpster.
1
I remember once that Trump said, "why do we have a nuclear arsenal if we don't intend to use it", or something like that. I am sure our ill-informed President thinks a nuclear bomb is nothing more than a big bomb. He has no idea what radiation is, or what it can do. The Japanese do.
24
"Despite the North’s recent development of ballistic missiles that experts say could reach the United States, North Korea’s neighbors would probably bear the brunt of its attacks."
How not like Trump, to let his fakery/bluster fall on someone else's shoulders.
How not like Trump, to let his fakery/bluster fall on someone else's shoulders.
2
both china and north korea are threatening Japan. Japan needs to develop nuclear weapons to defend itself.
2
I am very old. I was fifteen when Hiroshima and Nagasaki were atomic-bombed. When I saw the photographs in our newspapers and magazines, I cried. I hope no other fifteen year olds will be crying in the coming months and years. No matter if they are Korean or American or Russian or Chinese or whatever country.............
75
First time in 65 years that I ear, from the President of the USA, the possibility of a first pre emptive nuclear strike against a country....!It is utterly insane , immoral and criminal.Trump shall be lock up before it is too late.
Time to move on Mr Kim let go of that grudge you hold, the grudge you hold about when you lost that North - South Korean War and Democracy won.
Japan doesn't hold a grudge against the USA after losing World War Two and Japan are now best friends with the USA.
Peace brings prosperity and the Japanese government have moved on and put their nations best interests first: Something the North Korean dictator is incapable of doing and in the process destroying his own people and nation in the process. The fool doesn't realise that himself and his citizens are used as cheap labour and fodder by the Puppet Masters controlling him. All that wasted energy put into teaching his citizens to hate the USA is only going to hurt his own family and nation.
Japan doesn't hold a grudge against the USA after losing World War Two and Japan are now best friends with the USA.
Peace brings prosperity and the Japanese government have moved on and put their nations best interests first: Something the North Korean dictator is incapable of doing and in the process destroying his own people and nation in the process. The fool doesn't realise that himself and his citizens are used as cheap labour and fodder by the Puppet Masters controlling him. All that wasted energy put into teaching his citizens to hate the USA is only going to hurt his own family and nation.
By now Prime Minister, Shinzo Abe, you must have realized that sycophancy does not work with Trump. He might have forgotten about your country right after the State Dinner. Trump is your ally? Forget about it.
12
Trump is doing the groundwork now to start a war with North Korea at a time that would provide the maximum distraction, probably when his Russian connections are exposed and impeachment or arrest for him and his family members is close.
He doesn't care if millions of Japanese or Koreans or US servicemen die. The would be losers for being there on the first place and Trump only likes winners. In any case most of them aren't even white.
He doesn't care if millions of Japanese or Koreans or US servicemen die. The would be losers for being there on the first place and Trump only likes winners. In any case most of them aren't even white.
15
If any country knows about nuclear war, it is Japan. Trump should listen very carefully to them - they have been there, they have done that.........
11
Japan and South Korea can always elect to deal with Kim and North Korea on their own.
I'm certain that would please Kim immensely.
I'm certain that would please Kim immensely.
3
As a Navy veteran who served in Japan for four years I can only imagine how much anxiety this standoff between Trump and Kim is causing with the people of both South Korea and Japan. The second to the last paragraph in this article says it all: the Japanese and South Koreans will be bearing the brunt of any military action against the North. Oh, and did I just mention that I was one of the tens of thousands of U.S. military personnel that served in both countries? They and their families will be bearing the brunt as well.
25
I can understand why Japan might be looking for some kind of unselfish or honorable aspect to Trump's character. Surely, when Trump impulsively rattles the cage of their nuclear-armed neighbor, he had some master plan for making sure North Korea doesn't lash out at its nearest targets (i.e., Japan and South Korea), right? That's common sense!
Welcome to the meaning of "America First." Practically speaking, it's important to note that Trump views his own personal interests as synonymous with "America's," but that's a moot point as far as Japan is concerned. I would invite Japan to consider how Trump treats his DOMESTIC allies and then consider whether it is likely Trump loses any sleep at night over whatever trouble he may be causing a foreign ally. Abe can also put any silly notions that his support or enthusiasm for Trump's administration might earn him a bit of loyalty. Again, consider the fate of some of Trump's staunchest allies in his own young administration.
It took week and weeks of badgering to get Trump to even ACKNOWLEDGE NATO commitments. He has declared "America First." He has a reputation for flippantly throwing people he sees almost everyday under the bus at a moment's notice. He has had bad relations with a number of world leaders already (see Mexico and Australia). He is notorious for his dishonesty on any number of subjects. So does Trump have Japan's well-being on his mind at all? No. That would be a gross deviation from his character.
Welcome to the meaning of "America First." Practically speaking, it's important to note that Trump views his own personal interests as synonymous with "America's," but that's a moot point as far as Japan is concerned. I would invite Japan to consider how Trump treats his DOMESTIC allies and then consider whether it is likely Trump loses any sleep at night over whatever trouble he may be causing a foreign ally. Abe can also put any silly notions that his support or enthusiasm for Trump's administration might earn him a bit of loyalty. Again, consider the fate of some of Trump's staunchest allies in his own young administration.
It took week and weeks of badgering to get Trump to even ACKNOWLEDGE NATO commitments. He has declared "America First." He has a reputation for flippantly throwing people he sees almost everyday under the bus at a moment's notice. He has had bad relations with a number of world leaders already (see Mexico and Australia). He is notorious for his dishonesty on any number of subjects. So does Trump have Japan's well-being on his mind at all? No. That would be a gross deviation from his character.
25
"[Rich Americans] First?"
1
1. If we keep many weapons at home at all times, then we are safe because confrontations will be prevented.
Or,
2．If we keep many weapons at home at all times, then the likelihood of getting into irreparable confrontations will increase.
Which do you think?
At the very least, if we have no preparation to fight a war, then we will not be able to fight a war even if we wanted to. If we deeply and earnestly realize the hopes of Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the unwavering determination to never again fight another war is, indeed, the biggest treasure that Japan can pride itself to the world. And in all sincerity to that end, I hope Japan stands firm on non-cooperation to any act of war. That is, to withdraw itself from the nuclear umbrella and the military presence of the U.S. How can anyone truly advocate total elimination of nuclear weapons while enjoying the very presence and protection from them. In the devastating aftermath of World War II, a question was posed in the national assembly.“There is a war for invasion, and there is a war for legitimate national self-defense. Shouldn’t we only renounce the former,” a Diet member asked. Then-Prime Minister Yoshida replied, “Wars often start with a so-called claim for national self-defense, therefore, allowing self-defense will end up inadvertently inducing wars.” When conflicts arise, resolve them through the UN. They will take time, but so do wars. As the most peaceful nation on earth, show to the world through one’s own actions.
Or,
2．If we keep many weapons at home at all times, then the likelihood of getting into irreparable confrontations will increase.
Which do you think?
At the very least, if we have no preparation to fight a war, then we will not be able to fight a war even if we wanted to. If we deeply and earnestly realize the hopes of Hiroshima Peace Memorial, the unwavering determination to never again fight another war is, indeed, the biggest treasure that Japan can pride itself to the world. And in all sincerity to that end, I hope Japan stands firm on non-cooperation to any act of war. That is, to withdraw itself from the nuclear umbrella and the military presence of the U.S. How can anyone truly advocate total elimination of nuclear weapons while enjoying the very presence and protection from them. In the devastating aftermath of World War II, a question was posed in the national assembly.“There is a war for invasion, and there is a war for legitimate national self-defense. Shouldn’t we only renounce the former,” a Diet member asked. Then-Prime Minister Yoshida replied, “Wars often start with a so-called claim for national self-defense, therefore, allowing self-defense will end up inadvertently inducing wars.” When conflicts arise, resolve them through the UN. They will take time, but so do wars. As the most peaceful nation on earth, show to the world through one’s own actions.
2
Kim Jung-un seems uninterested in your line of reasoning. A nation as strong as Japan has the right to defend itself. All of us want to avoid war. But if it is required, given how much Japan has changed over time, I don't see why it should not have the defense capabilities it needs. It will not suddenly go back to the way it was before WWII.
The more you read about North Korea the more complex the situation becomes. When one goes back to the conclusion of WWII countries involved are Russia (Soviet Union), Japan, China, the U.S. and a North Korea (NK) and South Korea (SK). The line drawn along the 38th parallel is similar to East-West Germany. One governed by Russia the other by the U.S. Then throw in China supporting NK. And Japan who had occupied both Korea and China during the War.
Just so messy. Prime Minister Abe made an unfortunate error in playing up to Trump. Remember this is the President that had a naval task force heading to the Korean Peninsula, except it was going the other way!
Suggestion Mr. Abe, next time President Trump calls don't pick up the phone. This situation is way over his head.
Just so messy. Prime Minister Abe made an unfortunate error in playing up to Trump. Remember this is the President that had a naval task force heading to the Korean Peninsula, except it was going the other way!
Suggestion Mr. Abe, next time President Trump calls don't pick up the phone. This situation is way over his head.
14
Suggestion Mr. Abe, next time President Trump calls don't pick up the phone. This situation is way over his head.
yes, not doubt Japan on its own will be able to defend itself against North Korea and CHina, especially given the nature of both of these countries.
yes, not doubt Japan on its own will be able to defend itself against North Korea and CHina, especially given the nature of both of these countries.
You're telling me that Trump is rewarding support with betrayal? Come on.
14
Mr. Abe is confused about the US involvement in Korea. You know what, so am I, and I am an American. I did not understand when I was draft bait back in the early 1950s why young Americans were having their lives put at risk over a dispute between North Korea and South Korea. Here it is 65+ years later, and I still don't get it.
59
yes, the US could have done nothing when North Korea launched its invasion of the West. No doubt then the South Korean people would have been far better off living under the auspices of the Kim dynasty.
Hence you fought for a good cause. Without people like you ALL of Korea would have been run by the Kim dynasty. The South Koreans owe you their gratitude.
Hence you fought for a good cause. Without people like you ALL of Korea would have been run by the Kim dynasty. The South Koreans owe you their gratitude.
3
Japan should have their own nuclear arsenal so they can defend themselves. If anyone drops a nuclear bomb on them, they can retaliate in kind. Oh, wait...
13
Remove. Unfit.
The only question to ask reps and senators now is: "Have you spoken out in so many words in Plain English for the removal of Trump from the presidency? Yes or no?"
The only question to ask reps and senators now is: "Have you spoken out in so many words in Plain English for the removal of Trump from the presidency? Yes or no?"
26
If only the Democratic party did not nominate Hillary we would not be in this situation. A chimpanzee could have defeated Trump, yet she could not. This is what happens when a party nominates a poor candidate with little support. They end up not being able to fight their way out of a paper bag.
4
Japan is in a very vulnerable position, both morally and physically. We need to remember they have been an ally of ours since WWII. Takesada says in the closing paragraph, "There's concern about whether the US is really thinking about the security of Japan and South Korea." Mr. Takesada, I can assure you, Mr. Trump thinks about NO ONE other than himself and his immediate family.
51
I am not a hawk, but I do believe that the US must launch a precision bombing of Kim's test sites and R&D facilities - right now. The US currently enjoys support from the UN; in addition, Kim has threatened Guam. China has stated it will remain neutral if Kim launches at Guam. But if the US launched a premptive non-nuclear strike against missile sites and nuclear R&D facilities, I believe China would remain neutral militarily but get involved diplomatically.
The reality is, Kim will never ever back off his nuclear ICBM objectives. He is irrational and delusional, and believes it is his historic and familial legacy to put NK on the nuclear map - and perhaps even to be "The One" to launch against the US. No amount of sanctions, no amount of diplomacy will stop him. The only other possibility is assassination, perhaps by a general or family member.
The time for action is now. Right now. As in TONIGHT.
The reality is, Kim will never ever back off his nuclear ICBM objectives. He is irrational and delusional, and believes it is his historic and familial legacy to put NK on the nuclear map - and perhaps even to be "The One" to launch against the US. No amount of sanctions, no amount of diplomacy will stop him. The only other possibility is assassination, perhaps by a general or family member.
The time for action is now. Right now. As in TONIGHT.
6
Will you be at the recruiting station on Monday morning, or do born spurs preclude your visit?
50
Agree 100%. We know that the military overwhelmingly supported Trump during the election. Fact is, conservatives by far outweigh liberals in the military. The men and women who server and are first in the line of fire are mostly conservative and are ready to fight tonight!
1
First let me buy you a ticket to South Korea so
you can watch the action up close. Maybe bring the family.
you can watch the action up close. Maybe bring the family.
43
So, two things are out of the can: 1) That every time a new US president is elected Japan will have to be on edge to see whether or not the US will maintain their commitment to Japan's defense, and 2) They have to get their own defensive which realistically means they'll have to get realistic (and to be of any real deterrence) overwhelming pre-emptive strike capability.
From a bigger picture perspective, if North Korea can hit Japan with nuclear weapons in 3-4 minutes, then so can China and Russia. And if when push comes to shove Japan has to develop the capability to defend itself against North Korea, then they'll also have to be able to defend themselves pre-emptively against China and possibly Russia, but especially China who might have to, or could strike Japan in defense of North Korea.
All thanks to Trump.