Xi Jinping criticized Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi for the remilitarization of Japan.

The Chinese leader Xi Jinping had a harsh diatribe against Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, criticizing Japan's remilitarization during a summit with Donald Trump in Beijing. This reaction surprised American officials, as the subject of Japan had not been discussed previously. Xi has been vocal regarding Japan's defense spending, and Trump responded that Tokyo needs to adopt a firmer security stance due to threats from North Korea.

Former American official Christopher Johnstone emphasized that Xi's attack confirms Japan's efforts to become more autonomous in security. Japan has identified China as its greatest strategic challenge in its defense reports, and relations between Beijing and Tokyo have deteriorated following Takaichi's comments about Taiwan.

China reacted with rhetorical attacks and economic measures, including restrictions on exports. The Chinese Embassy in the U.S. urged Japan to review its actions and rhetoric, while Japan remains concerned about its alliance with the U.S.