<h1>Japanese Prime Minister cancels NATO summit attendance amid US trade disputes and domestic political pressure</h1> The Japanese Prime Minister abruptly cancelled attendance at a NATO summit, signaling strained relations with the US administration. The cancellation followed failed prospects for bilateral meetings and came amid escalating trade disputes, including 25% tariffs on Japanese automobiles that reduced exports by 25%. Diplomatic tensions emerged over defense spending demands, disagreements on Middle East policy, and criticism of the bilateral security alliance. The Prime Minister faces domestic political pressure with poor polling, recent electoral losses, and upcoming elections that could force resignation if the governing party loses its parliamentary majority.