Minoru Kihara expresses concern as a Chinese destroyer conducts live-fire drills within Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

Minoru Kihara, the Chief Cabinet Secretary, conveyed the Japanese government's concern regarding a Chinese missile destroyer conducting live-fire drills southwest of the remote Okinotori Island. The exercise took place approximately 180km from the island, marking the first time the Japanese defense ministry acknowledged a foreign navy vessel firing live rounds within Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The drills occurred during a joint operation involving three Chinese warships and a Russian frigate. While Tokyo viewed the maneuvers as a sign of deepening military cooperation between China and Russia, Beijing disputed Japan's designation of Okinotori as an island, arguing it is a reef and therefore does not grant Japan rights to the surrounding waters. Kihara noted that while the Chinese crew notified nearby ships of the drill's duration and location, the administration remains vigilant. Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi highlighted the action as evidence of growing China-Russia cooperation. Meanwhile, China’s Foreign Ministry spokesperson Lin Jian refuted Japan's concerns, suggesting that Tokyo is overemphasizing external threats to justify its own military buildup.

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