Japan seeks US support amid China rare earth restrictions; Trump-Takaichi talks precede Xi visit

Japan has requested US support after China restricted rare earth mineral supplies to Tokyo in late 2025. The request was discussed in talks between Donald Trump and Sanae Takaichi ahead of Xi Jinping's visit, signaling a potential shift in alliance coordination. The outcome and US commitment remain uncertain, but the move underscores escalating resource-security tensions in the Indo-Pacific.