China’s Ministry of National Defense has issued a stern warning against Japan’s accelerating military ambitions, including controversial discussions about nuclear weapons acquisition. Defense Spokesperson Zhang Xiaogang articulated deep concerns on Thursday regarding what Beijing characterizes as Tokyo’s dangerous shift toward remilitarization.
The comments came in direct response to reports from Japanese media outlet Yomiuri Shimbun indicating Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s administration would not exclude the possibility of obtaining nuclear-powered submarines. More alarmingly, officials within the Prime Minister’s Office have recently advocated for Japan to develop nuclear weapons capability.
Zhang condemned these developments as representing a blatant challenge to the post-World War II international order and the global nuclear nonproliferation framework. “These moves represent a blatant challenge to the post-World War II international order and pose a serious threat to regional and global peace stability,” the defense spokesman stated.
The Chinese defense official further criticized Japan’s pattern of using the “China threat” narrative to justify its military expansion while simultaneously making provocative statements on sensitive issues including Taiwan. Zhang emphasized that Japan’s right-wing forces are openly testing the boundaries of international justice through their nuclear advocacy and increased military posturing.
Addressing Japan’s recent defense reports that criticized China’s military activities and spending, Zhang provided counterarguments highlighting that China’s defense expenditures remain reasonable and moderate by international standards. He noted that China’s military activities comply fully with international law and practice.
The spokesman concluded with a call to action for the international community: “We call on all peace-loving countries and people to take action to firmly curb the revival of militarism by Japan’s right-wing forces, and to prevent the world from being plunged into turmoil and a repeat of historical tragedies.”