Trump Speaks With Japan's Leader, Eyes "New Chapter" in 2026

Former U.S. President Donald Trump and Japanese Prime Minister Fumio Kishida held a telephone conversation, discussing the future of the alliance between their two countries. The call took place as Trump campaigns to win back the White House in the November election. In a statement, Prime Minister Kishida said he looks forward to working with Trump. His goal is "to make 2026 a year in which we carve out a new chapter in the history of the Japan-U.S. Alliance." The year 2026 will mark the 70th anniversary of the U.S.-Japan security treaty. This pact is a cornerstone of security and diplomacy in Asia. The discussion highlights how U.S. allies are preparing for a possible change in American leadership. World leaders often make early contact with leading candidates to build relationships.