The United States and Japan held an Extended Deterrence Dialogue (EDD) at the State Department in Washington, D.C., on February 18, 2026. The meeting was co-chaired by officials from the U.S. Departments of State and War, as well as Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs and Ministry of Defense. Delegates included representatives from the Japan Joint Staff, U.S. Joint Staff, U.S. Strategic Command, and U.S. Indo-Pacific Command.
According to a joint statement, "The EDD advanced President Trump and Prime Minister Takaichi’s shared determination to further enhance the Alliance’s deterrence and response capabilities." Both sides reaffirmed the United States’ commitment to defend Japan using all available defense capabilities, including nuclear weapons. The delegations also noted that Japan’s support for U.S. operations helps reinforce deterrence efforts.
Participants agreed that both the U.S. nuclear posture and increased Japanese investment in conventional defense are important for deterring or responding to regional aggression if necessary.
During discussions, delegates addressed China’s ongoing expansion of its nuclear arsenal and testing activities, which were described as rapid and destabilizing. They also raised concerns about Russia’s historical noncompliance with arms control agreements. The United States emphasized the need for broader strategic stability talks involving multiple countries. In response, "Japan welcomed the U.S. intention to achieve a better agreement and emphasized the importance of involving Russia and China."
The dialogue also covered North Korea's progress with its nuclear and missile programs, with both sides reaffirming their commitment "to the complete denuclearization of the DPRK."
Additionally, officials discussed strengthening alliance guidelines on extended deterrence through improved strategic messaging, crisis communications, coordination efforts between both nations’ militaries, and enhancing Japan's own defense capabilities.
As part of their engagement during this session, both delegations participated in a regular tabletop exercise.
