Washington, D.C (V7N) — President Donald Trump has criticized Japan’s defense arrangement with the United States, claiming Tokyo "makes a fortune" from the relationship while not being obligated to protect the U.S. militarily. His comments come as Japan’s trade minister prepares to visit Washington amid looming tariffs.

Speaking on Thursday, Trump questioned the fairness of the U.S.-Japan alliance, stating, "We have to protect them, but they don’t have to protect us." He also took aim at Japan’s economic benefits from the partnership, asking, "Who makes these deals?"

Japan’s government responded swiftly, with spokesman Yoshimasa Hayashi reaffirming Tokyo’s trust in Washington to uphold its security commitments under the bilateral treaty. The U.S. maintains 54,000 military personnel in Japan, primarily in Okinawa.

Meanwhile, Japanese trade minister Yoji Muto is set to visit Washington, hoping to secure an exemption from upcoming U.S. tariffs on steel and aluminum. Trump has announced a 25% tariff on steel and aluminum imports, set to take effect next Wednesday.

Muto also dismissed Trump’s claim that Japan was investing in a massive natural gas pipeline in Alaska, stating that profitability and supply issues still need further evaluation.

With Japan’s auto industry under threat from potential 25% tariffs on vehicle exports, Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba urged Tokyo to present its case forcefully to Washington, emphasizing Japan’s significant contribution to the U.S. economy.

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