Core Viewpoint - The article discusses the tensions between the United States and Japan regarding defense spending, highlighting Japan's decision to cancel a scheduled high-level meeting due to U.S. pressure to increase defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, which Japan finds politically risky ahead of its upcoming elections [1][2]. Group 1 - U.S. officials have requested Japan to raise its defense spending to 3.5% of GDP, leading to Japan's cancellation of the scheduled "2+2" meeting on July 1 [1]. - Japan's decision to cancel the meeting is influenced by the upcoming Senate elections on July 20, reflecting concerns over the political risks associated with the meeting [1]. - The article notes that Japan had previously set a target to increase defense spending to 2% of GDP by the fiscal year 2027 [2]. Group 2 - The article mentions ongoing "difficult" tariff negotiations between Japan and the U.S., with past discussions involving Japan's contribution to the costs of U.S. military presence in Japan [2]. - Japan's Prime Minister Shigeru Ishiba has stated that defense spending decisions are made by Japan independently, not based on external pressures [1].