Protesters Flood Tokyo Streets Against Trump–Takaichi Summit as Anger Grows Over Japan–US Alliance

Tensions flared in Tokyo as hundreds of protesters took to the streets on Monday to oppose U.S. President Donald Trump’s visit and his planned meeting with Japan’s new Prime Minister, Sanae Takaichi. The demonstrators, chanting slogans and waving banners reading “Smash the Trump–Takaichi Summit” and “Overthrow Trump and Takaichi,” accused both leaders of fueling global conflict and advancing an “imperialist” agenda against China. Many protesters, including students and workers, voiced anger over Trump’s rhetoric against immigrants and women. One demonstrator said the Japan–U.S. alliance is “prolonging a capitalist system by waging war against China.” Police maintained tight security as the march proceeded through central Tokyo. Trump’s Japan stop is part of a five-day Asia tour that includes Malaysia and South Korea. He is expected to meet Chinese President Xi Jinping later this week to discuss a possible truce in the ongoing U.S.–China trade war.