politics
The Kuril Islands: how a visit from Putin reignited a 150-year-old dispute between Japan and Russia
The diplomatic spat continues to simmer as Moscow summons Tokyo’s ambassador after the Russian president’s trip to the disputed islands last week
TL;DR
- Russia summoned the Japanese ambassador following Putin's visit to the disputed Kuril Islands.
- Japan considers the four southernmost islands, known as the Northern Territories, to be its territory.
- The islands were seized by the Soviet Union in the final days of World War II.
- The Kurils are strategically important for Russia, providing year-round access to the Pacific Ocean.
- The disputed territories also offer access to rich fishing grounds and potentially valuable mineral deposits.
- Japan has imposed sanctions on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine, hardening its stance.
- Bilateral relations between Japan and Russia have significantly deteriorated in recent years.