While the domestic political situation and Donald Trump¡¯s visit captured all the media attention in October, Japan¡¯s Ministry of Defense delivered a quiet announcement earlier in the month that represents a significant milestone in the country¡¯s security practice.
On Oct. 10, the ministry revealed additional support that Japan will provide to Ukraine, including the Ground Self-Defense Force¡¯s deployment of two officers to conduct demining training for Ukrainian armed forces. This deployment is set to take place from Nov. 3 to Dec. 5, with the personnel traveling to Lithuania as part of a coalition alongside members from Denmark, Finland, Iceland, Norway and Sweden.
Although the size and duration of the deployment ¡ª two people for one month ¡ª seems insignificant, it represents an important fait accompli in the employment of the Self-Defense Force. Not only does it demonstrate Japan¡¯s enduring commitment to Ukraine, but it is a first-of-its-kind deployment that opens up a menu of options for SDF support missions going forward.
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