Japan’s New Leader Is Set to Face a Trump Test

The article discusses the emergence of Sanae Takaichi as a potential successor to Japan's Prime Minister, Yoshihide Suga. Takaichi, a conservative politician, is known for her strong stance against China's growing influence in the region. She has vowed to counter China's efforts to reshape the global order and has called for a closer alignment between Japan and the United States, particularly in the face of the Trump administration's volatile foreign policy. The article highlights Takaichi's intention to strengthen Japan's defense capabilities and her support for the country's nuclear energy program, despite public concerns about the safety of nuclear power following the Fukushima disaster. As a potential leader, Takaichi is expected to face a delicate balancing act, navigating the complex geopolitical landscape while addressing domestic issues, such as Japan's aging population and economic stagnation. The article suggests that Takaichi's rise to power could have significant implications for Japan's foreign policy and its relationship with the United States, particularly in the context of the ongoing tensions between the U.S. and China.