TOKYO — The Japanese government has issued a categorical denial regarding recent media reports alleging that U.S. President Donald Trump advised Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to avoid "provoking China" regarding the sensitive issue of Taiwan.
The controversy centers on a November 24 telephone conversation between the two leaders their first direct exchange since tensions escalated between Tokyo and Beijing earlier this month.
The Contentious Report
A recent report by The Wall Street Journal (WSJ), citing anonymous sources, claimed that during the call, President Trump offered "subtle" yet non-coercive advice to Prime Minister Takaichi, suggesting she refrain from escalating tensions with Beijing. Similar narratives were subsequently echoed by Reuters and Kyodo News.
However, in a press conference on the morning of November 27, Japanese Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara dismissed these claims as entirely baseless.
"There is absolutely no truth to the report that President Trump asked Japan to avoid angering Beijing," Kihara stated.
He further confirmed that Tokyo has contacted the Wall Street Journal to request a clarification of the facts. As of now, the White House has not issued a formal comment regarding the three media reports.
A "Great Call" Between Allies
contrary to the media narrative of friction, accounts from the Japanese side portray the call as a robust affirmation of the alliance. Prime Minister Takaichi told reporters that the discussion focused on the U.S.-Japan alliance, the security landscape of the Indo-Pacific, and recent U.S.-China diplomatic engagements.
President Trump reportedly heaped praise on the Japanese Prime Minister, describing the conversation as "excellent." According to Japanese officials, Trump characterized Takaichi as:
"Very smart."
"Very tough."
"Destined to be a great leader."
He notably emphasized their personal rapport, inviting her to call him anytime as a "close friend."
The Spark: "Survival-Threatening Situation"
The backdrop of this diplomatic back-and-forth is a sharp spike in Sino-Japanese tensions triggered on November 7. During a parliamentary session, Prime Minister Takaichi stated that a naval blockade of Taiwan could legally constitute a "survival-threatening situation" for Japan. Under Japanese security laws, this designation allows Tokyo to mobilize its Self-Defense Forces to support an ally—specifically the United States.
Beijing’s reaction was swift and severe. China viewed the statement as a red line, launching a series of retaliatory economic and diplomatic measures against Japan, including:
Issuing travel warnings for Chinese citizens visiting Japan.
Imposing restrictions on Chinese students studying in Japan.
Halting the release of Japanese films within China.
Unwavering Stance
Despite the mounting pressure from Beijing and the swirling media rumors, Prime Minister Takaichi has maintained her position. She clarified that her initial comments were a direct legal interpretation regarding a blockade scenario, not a political provocation.
She reaffirmed that while Japan remains open to dialogue, Tokyo will continue to assess threats "based on the reality of the situation" regarding Taiwan.
Observers note that this incident highlights the resilience of the U.S.-Japan partnership. By swiftly countering reports that sought to paint a wedge between Washington and Tokyo, the Japanese government aims to signal that the alliance remains lockstep in facing security challenges in the Indo-Pacific.