President Donald Trump expressed his ongoing dissatisfaction with the U.S.-Japan security treaty, describing it as "one-sided." He made these remarks during a Cabinet meeting, highlighting the financial burden on the United States for defending Japan. Trump sarcastically noted that the treaty is a "wonderful deal" while emphasizing that Japan does not contribute significantly to its own defense.

Trump's comments on the security treaty were made in the context of upcoming trade negotiations between the two countries. He shifted from discussing tariffs to criticizing the treaty, claiming the United States has been treated unfairly in global trade. He placed blame on previous administrations for what he views as unfavorable agreements.

The existing security treaty, established in 1960, allows the United States to maintain military bases in Japan and obligates it to defend Japan if attacked. The United States currently stations over 50,000 military personnel in Japan, more than in any other foreign country.

The Trump administration has identified Japan as a priority for trade negotiations, given its trade surplus with the United States. Japan is preparing to send a negotiating team, with a meeting between Japan's economic revitalization minister and the U.S. Treasury Secretary expected. The administration also aims to address other issues with allies like Japan and South Korea, who also host U.S. troops.

Japan provides approximately $2 billion annually for host-nation support, covering expenses related to U.S. forces stationed there. During his previous term, Trump had also urged Japan and South Korea to increase their defense spending and support for U.S. military presence.

Trump also addressed the proposed acquisition of United States Steel Corp. by Nippon Steel Corp. He made it clear that he opposes the deal, citing concerns about a foreign company purchasing the American steelmaker. He expressed confidence that U.S. Steel could recover independently, attributing this to the tariffs he has implemented. Trump had previously ordered a review of the buyout plan by federal agencies.