Japan PM Criticises US Sanctions on ICC Chief

Japanese Prime Minister Takaichi said US sanctions on the Japanese head of the International Criminal Court are "very unfortunate," and Japan criticised Washington over the move. The dispute adds to pressure on Takaichi, already facing complications from a US move on South Korea. In parallel, China accused Japan of stockpiling several dozen tonnes of plutonium and urged vigilance against Japanese right-wing forces, with its foreign ministry spokesperson calling on the international community to jointly reject what it called their dangerous pursuit. Saudi Arabia's foreign minister, meanwhile, described Japan as a key economic partner.