It is a tough position for the Japanese government to be in. It seeks to walk that tightrope without definitely coming down against the recent U.S. military incursion into Venezuela. Japan’s predicament is an even pricklier one. It should redouble its assurances to the Japan-U.S. alliance, but with a new emphasis that places equal priority on the international rule of law—so sacred in its rhetoric when confronting China and Russia.
Japan’s alliance with the United States is the bedrock of its security policy. Given Japan’s critical role as a strategic player in the deterioration of international relations, it understands the need to keep strong connections with Washington. To openly condemn the U.S. strike in the case of Venezuela would put this important relationship at risk. It’s obvious that the Japanese government is trying to tread lightly in this delicate, confounding situation. Further military operations, they say, should be more clearly defined military objectives.
Tokyo officials have used the opportunity to stress their commitment to preserving the international rule of law. Second, simultaneously, they have avoided criticizing U.S. actions outright. This dual approach allows Japan to uphold its foreign policy principles without jeopardizing its longstanding alliance with the United States. The government recognizes that a clear condemnation of the military operation could create friction with Washington, potentially undermining collaboration on other critical issues.
Japan has consistently been a leader in upholding the international rule of law. It applies that principle to address the geopolitical threats from countries like China and Russia. In many ways, this position illustrates its deep determination to continue being perceived as a credible power in the world. It is undercut by its own territorial disputes and human rights violations. Japan’s reticence to outright condemn U.S. interventions in Venezuela is alarming. It challenges us to look at Japan’s role in shaping global diplomatic conversations.
The complexity of Japan’s situation gets a lot deeper when we consider the possible repercussions of its actions. Should Japan choose to align itself too closely with U.S. military interventions, it risks alienating other nations that value adherence to international law. Distancing itself from Washington would jeopardize a key TMC alliance. This alliance is an indispensable foundation for America’s national security.