President Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba reaffirmed their nations’ deep alliance during a meeting and joint press conference at the White House, covering a range of critical issues, including trade, defense, and economic cooperation. The meeting underscored Japan’s commitment to increasing defense spending and investing heavily in the United States while also highlighting ongoing challenges in global trade and security.
Speaking to reporters, President Trump praised Japan as one of the largest buyers of U.S. military equipment and commended its commitment to bolstering its defense capabilities by 2027. He emphasized that Japan’s increased investment in military hardware is a testament to the strength of the alliance. Prime Minister Ishiba echoed this sentiment, stating that he is eager to further deepen Japan’s relationship with the U.S. and ensure long-term stability in the Indo-Pacific.
The discussion naturally turned to the blocked acquisition of U.S. Steel by Japan’s Nippon Steel. President Trump made it clear that, while the U.S. has a strong relationship with Japan, he remains open to implementing tariffs if necessary to protect American industries. He also stressed the importance of fair trade, hinting at future negotiations to address economic imbalances between the two nations.
North Korea was another key topic, with both leaders agreeing on the need for continued pressure on Pyongyang to curb its nuclear ambitions. President Trump reaffirmed his commitment to maintaining peace and stability in the region, emphasizing that collaboration with Japan is central to that mission.
During the press conference, Prime Minister Ishiba made a major economic announcement, declaring Japan’s intent to “elevate Japan’s investment in the United States to an unprecedented amount of $1 trillion” under President Trump’s leadership. The investment marks a significant move in strengthening economic ties and boosting U.S. manufacturing and infrastructure.
When questioned about government reform, President Trump did not hold back. He called wasteful spending within USAID “absolutely obscene” and hinted at major cuts across multiple government agencies. “We’re going to be doing more and more,” he said. “We’re going to be looking at the Department of Education, we’re going to be looking at our military… We’re talking about trillions of dollars.” His remarks signaled a broader effort to reduce government inefficiency and reallocate resources to areas of national interest.
On the subject of energy, President Trump highlighted the vast, untapped oil and gas reserves in the U.S., particularly in Alaska. “We have potentially more oil and gas than Saudi Arabia just in Alaska,” he stated. “We have the most of any country in the world. It’s a big asset for the United States, but we haven’t used it.” The comment underscored his administration’s focus on energy independence and domestic production as a means to strengthen the economy and reduce reliance on foreign sources.
President Trump reflected on the historical bond between the U.S. and Japan, reaffirming his belief that the partnership would continue to grow. “For nearly 80 years, the American and Japanese people have enjoyed a friendship like few others,” he said. “After our meeting today, I’m confident that the cherished alliance between our two countries… will continue to flourish long into the future.”
With major economic and security commitments reaffirmed, the meeting between President Trump and Prime Minister Ishiba signaled a new chapter in U.S.-Japan relations, with both nations poised for closer cooperation in trade, defense, and global leadership.