Okinawans look to President Trump to make positive changes

Okinawa News Network
March 31, 2025

As tensions continue to rise in the Asia-Pacific region, the people of Okinawa are hoping to make progress on long-standing military base issues under the second Trump administration.

According to some Okinawans, President Trump has shown a willingness to think outside of the box and shake up the status quo, as seen in his defunding of USAID and his efforts to bring an end to the war in Ukraine. Okinawans are hopeful that this same approach will be applied to the ongoing military base issues in Okinawa.

For decades, Okinawa has been home to a significant number of U.S. military bases, causing tension and frustration among the local population. The recent relocation of a U.S. Marine Corps base to Henoko, Okinawa has sparked renewed protests and calls for a complete withdrawal of U.S. forces from the island.

The people of Okinawa are looking to return Ryukyu to its former status as a demilitarized buffer zone focused on trade and finance, and are hopeful that President Trump will listen to their concerns and work towards a peaceful resolution. Okinawans have long called for a removal of Japanese and U.S. troops stationed from Okinawa, citing environmental and safety concerns.

Under the second Trump administration, Okinawans are eager to engage in dialogue and find a mutually beneficial solution to the military base issues. They are hopeful that President Trump’s unconventional approach to problem-solving will lead to progress and a peaceful resolution in the Asia-Pacific region.

According to the Peace For Okinawa Coalition, the people of Okinawa are looking to President Trump to make a positive impact on their community and are eagerly awaiting his visit. They hope that this will be a step towards a more peaceful and stable future for Okinawa.