US stresses backing for Japan, Korea and Taiwan ahead of Trump-Xi summit

The United States has reaffirmed its dedication to the defense of Japan and South Korea, as well as Taiwan, in the days leading up to a summit between President Donald Trump and Chinese President Xi Jinping. Analysts suggest that Asian allies are worried Trump may offer compromises to Xi, such as on Taiwan and trade, in exchange for a favorable economic deal when they meet at the White House.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and South Korean President Lee Jae Myung both expressed interest in meeting with Trump during the UN General Assembly in New York, where they will be speaking. US Secretary of State Marco Rubio met with his South Korean and Japanese counterparts in New York and issued a joint statement vowing to resist economic coercion and non-market policies, as well as arbitrary export restrictions that disrupt supply chains.

The three nations also backed Taiwan's participation in international organizations. The statement highlighted the importance of peace and stability in the Taiwan Strait and the commitment to complete denuclearization of North Korea. The US reiterated its "ironclad" commitment to defend Japan and South Korea, including its nuclear capabilities, and reaffirmed its extended deterrence commitments.