Japan, NATO Share ‘Grave Concern’ Over China, Russia Flights: Tokyo

NATO chief Mark Rutte spoke by video conference with Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi on December 10, 2025 about escalating security tensions with Russia and China in Asia. Image via @shinjirokoiz

NATO chief Mark Rutte and Japan’s defence minister shared their “grave concerns” about recent joint patrols by Chinese and Russian aircraft, Tokyo said.

The incident on Tuesday came as Japan-China relations worsen after comments by Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi about Taiwan that enraged Beijing.

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