Russia Issues Warning Over Japan's Missile Transfer to the U.S.
Russia expresses concern following Japan's agreement to transfer Patriot PAC-3 missiles to the United States, potentially affecting relations with Moscow.
Jordan Taylor
- 2023-12-29
- Updated 09:47 PM ET
(NewsNibs) - In a move that has drawn criticism from Russia, Japan has decided to transfer Patriot PAC-3 missiles to the United States. Moscow warns that this action could have negative consequences on its relationship with Tokyo, especially amid concerns that these missiles might eventually be supplied to Ukraine. Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, has stated that such a move could not only undermine stability in the region but also globally.
Tensions Rise Over Military Modernization
Zakharova suggests that Japan's decision is indicative of the country moving away from its post-war peace constitution under the leadership of Prime Minister Fumio Kishida. Russia directly warns that any transfer of Japan's PAC-3 missiles to Ukraine would dramatically affect Russian-Japanese relations. Furthermore, they consider a transfer of these missiles to Ukrainian armed forces as an unfriendly act with severe consequences.
Amidst contemporary security concerns, Japan has shifted its policy and has agreed to supply PAC-3 missiles, which are produced under an American license, to Washington. This supply comes after Japan lifted its post-war ban on exporting defense equipment. Now, Tokyo possesses the right to export Japan-made military gear under foreign licenses to countries that hold those licenses. This policy shift reflects Japan's broader effort to strengthen its military capabilities under Prime Minister Kishida's administration, which has proposed a five-year defense buildup plan that could elevate Japan to the status of the world's third-largest defense spender, following the United States and China.
The situation highlights a complex interplay of international relations, security concerns, and shifting defense policies. As Japan redefines its stance on defense export and military expenditure, the global community watches closely to see the repercussions on regional and international stability.
