ANKARA

Japan’s prime minister on Monday warned the US of potential repercussions for bilateral trade after it moved to block a $14.1 billion acquisition of United States Steel by Japanese firm Nippon Steel.

Speaking to reporters, Shigeru Ishiba said he would seek clarification over the national security risk cited by President Joe Biden’s decision to block the deal, Kyodo News Agency reported.

His reaction comes after Biden on Friday blocked the deal, citing "critical" national security concerns and the need to maintain "resilient supply chains."

Later, Nippon Steel said it would challenge the US move in court.

In a joint statement, Nippon and US Steel blasted Biden’s move, calling it "unlawful" to block the proposed acquisition, adding that they will take all appropriate action to protect their legal rights.

Biden's decision came after the Committee on Foreign Investment in the United States last month failed to reach consensus on whether the proposed sale poses a national security risk.

President-elect Donald Trump, set to succeed Biden on Jan. 20, has also voiced opposition to the sale.

*Writing by Islamuddin Sajid