Minoru Kihara expresses concern over Chinese navy destroyer conducting live-fire drills within Japan’s exclusive economic zone.

Minoru Kihara, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary, expressed concern on Tuesday regarding a Chinese Luyang III-class guided-missile destroyer conducting live-fire drills within Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ). The exercise took place on Sunday approximately 180 kilometers southwest of Okinotori, Japan’s southernmost island, and was conducted alongside a Russian frigate. Kihara noted that the drills posed a potential safety threat to nearby vessels, though the Chinese warships provided notice before beginning the operation. While Japan views the action as a sign of deepening military cooperation between China and Russia, the Chinese Foreign Ministry dismissed the concern as "groundless." Spokesperson Lin Jian argued that Japan is exaggerating external threats to justify its own military buildup. The incident marks the first time the Japanese defense ministry has acknowledged a foreign navy vessel firing live rounds within its EEZ. This development comes as Japan continues to monitor the rapid expansion of Chinese operations in the Pacific and the strengthening of the China-Russia military alliance.

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