By using this site, you agree to our Privacy Policy and our Terms of Use. Close

"As we meet here today, I detect an undercurrent of self-doubt among some Americans about what your role in the world should be," Kishida told a joint session of the House of Representatives and Senate during a state visit to Washington.

"The international order that the US worked for generations to build is facing new challenges, challenges from those with values and principles very different from ours," Kishida said.

Kishida said he understood "the exhaustion of being the country that has upheld the international order almost single-handedly" but added: "The leadership of the United States is indispensable."

"Without US support, how long before the hopes of Ukraine would collapse under the onslaught from Moscow?" he asked.

"Without the presence of the United States, how long before the Indo-Pacific would face even harsher realities?"

While he was careful not to touch on US domestic politics, Kishida's address comes amid a deadlock in Congress on approving billions of dollars in additional military aid to Ukraine, due to pressure from hard-right Republicans aligned with presidential contender Donald Trump.

Japanese leader asks US to overcome ‘self-doubt’ about global leadership | Japan | The Guardian