US Secretary of Defense Lloyd Austin said that Washington intends to protect Japan from potential threats using conventional weapons and nuclear capabilities.
“We underline America’s readiness to defend Japan using our full arsenal of conventional weapons and nuclear capabilities,” Austin said in a statement after meeting with Japanese Defense Minister Yasukazu Hamada.
During the meeting, the head of the Pentagon discussed China’s actions against Taiwan and near the border with Japan, calling them “aggressive” and “provocative”, and also discussed military operations in Ukraine.
“Our attitude towards Japan and our allies and other partners remains responsible, confident and determined,” Austin added.
The head of the Pentagon also announced the desire of the United States to strengthen military cooperation with Japan, calling the union of the two countries a “cornerstone” in ensuring the security of the Indo-Pacific region.
Source: RIA Novosti