In an effort to speak with an authoritative voice on issues we deem important, The Japan Times Editorial Board produces a single editorial each week that offers a fresh and informed perspective. The weekly editorial appears online every Friday and is published in print in The Japan Times Weekend edition.
A new president, a new opportunity for Japan-South Korea relations
Signs are encouraging for Tokyo. Throughout the presidential campaign, Yoon Suk-yeol criticized sitting President Moon Jae-in for letting Japan-South Korea relations deteriorate.
The U.S. Fed navigates a difficult path, with much resting on its success
The market plunge is a vote of no confidence in the Fed’s ability to safely navigate between competing imperatives: controlling inflation and keeping the economy growing.
The war in Ukraine and Russia's threats have given policymakers and publics reason to believe that nuclear arsenals contribute to national security.
Japanese officials favor a weak yen because companies earn higher profits. But Japanese businesses now rely increasingly on foreign production, which limits the value of a weaker yen.
Tokyo should use its influence and its political capital to persuade countries sitting on the fence on the Ukraine war to join it and support a global order that is under attack.
Hold Russian soldiers and their leaders accountable for war crimes
As Russian troops have withdrawn from areas under their control, evidence of horrific brutality is mounting.
A cause for concern: China diplomacy targets Pacific nations
Governments that fear Chinese encroachment in Oceania and elsewhere should do more to address the issues that worry the residents of those nations and win favor in regional capitals.
It’s past time for Japan to look clearly at relations with Russia and acknowledge Moscow’s behavior for what it is: empty rhetoric, tactical tricks and bullying.
Justice in Ukraine depends on our actions, as well as Russia’s
The foundational principles of international law are the sovereignty of states, the equality of states and the inviolability of borders. Russia’s invasion has trampled on those pillars.
Prime Minister Kishida responded positively to Yoon's victory, reciprocating his desire to put the bilateral relationship between Tokyo and Seoul back on track.
The West, and the world, has united to oppose the invasion of Ukraine. While many leaders deserve credit for helping to forge this coalition, Biden deserves a good deal of the credit.
In Washington and allied capitals, Beijing is no longer seen as a partner, but rather as a competitor if not a threat.
