politics
'Absolutely unacceptable': Japan PM Takaichi condemns Putin’s visit to disputed Kuril Islands
Japan protested Vladimir Putin’s first visit to the disputed Kuril Islands, escalating tensions over territory claimed by both Tokyo and Moscow.
TL;DR
- Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to the Kuril Islands "absolutely unacceptable."
- Takaichi stated that the Kuril Islands are "inherently Japanese territory."
- Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the island of Iturup, touring a military base, a fish processing complex, a hospital, and a school.
- Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi also protested the visit, stating, "Japan strongly protests this visit."
- The dispute over the Kuril Islands has prevented Japan and Russia from signing a peace treaty since World War II.
- Analysts believe Putin's visit is a response to Japan's recent defense white paper, which identified Russia as a critical threat.