Key Takeaways:
- Japan has engaged in discussions with the US on the prospective supply of artillery shells to strengthen the US stockpile supporting Ukraine.
- The US has shipped over 1.5 million 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine since February 2022.
- Many voters in Japan are opposed to their country’s involvement in international conflicts.
WISCONSIN (CoinChapter.com) — Japan has engaged in unprecedented diplomatic discussions with the US on the prospective supply of artillery shells to strengthen the US stockpile supporting Ukraine.
Japan’s engagement is the result of a deliberate choice to work around its limitations on weapons exports and support Kyiv in its counteroffensive during the current conflict.
A potential agreement between Japan and the US is a significant development in the international response to the ongoing crisis. Japan, famous for its post-World War II pacifist posture, is now in a situation where it may offer non-lethal military help to a country at war.
US Supplies to Ukraine
The US has shipped over 1.5 million 155mm artillery shells to Ukraine since February 2022. These munitions have been instrumental in Ukraine’s defensive operations. Washington is looking towards its allies to help replenish the stockpile.
Pentagon officials say the Ukrainian military uses around 90,000 155mm shells monthly. Therefore the need for more supply is urgent. This level of consumption is much higher than what the US has so far been able to meet.
Japan is Thinking About Giving the US Artillery Shells
If the scheme is successful, Japan will assist in replenishing US stockpiles, indirectly supporting Ukraine’s military effort. However, the number of munitions Japan can provide and the delivery date has yet to be decided, adding a layer of uncertainty to the ongoing negotiations.
Lethal military assistance to other countries is prohibited by the constitution of Japan and regulations governing the transfer of weapons. The nation can, however, provide non-lethal military assistance, which is precisely what Japan intends to do in this circumstance.
This includes the US giving Ukraine artillery ammunition that the Ukrainian military will eventually deploy. Japan’s direct involvement is confined to providing non-lethal military assistance even though these shells would be used in a combat area, upholding its constitutional pledge.
Political Sensitivity of Japan’s Involvement
There is some dispute about the possible deal between Japan and the US. Given that many voters in Japan are opposed to their country’s involvement in international conflicts, it is likely to be a politically contentious issue there.
The plan’s proponents counter that given the severity of the Ukrainian issue, Japan’s engagement is imperative. They contend that Japan must support global peace and stability as a major world power.
