Japan PM Criticises Putin's Visit to Disputed Kuril Islands

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has expressed strong disapproval of Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to the Kuril Islands, labelling it "absolutely unacceptable." This visit marks the first time a Russian leader has set foot on the islands, specifically Iturup, known in Japan as Etorofu. The Kuril Islands dispute remains a significant point of contention between the two nations, preventing the signing of a peace treaty following World War Two.

The Kuril chain lies strategically between Hokkaido, Japan, and the Kamchatka Peninsula in Russia. Japan claims four of the southernmost islands, referred to as the Northern Territories, which are currently administered by Russia. Following the conclusion of World War Two, the Soviet Union annexed these islands and deported around 17,000 Japanese residents.

During his visit, Japanese media reports indicate that Putin sampled local delicacies and interacted with residents. Prime Minister Takaichi, speaking to journalists, asserted that Putin's visit "wounds the feelings of the Japanese people" and contradicts Japan's longstanding position regarding the Northern Territories. She called on Russia to recognise the severity of the situation.

Earlier in the day, Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi reiterated the country's stance, stating that the islands are "inherently Japanese territory both historically and under international law," and affirmed that the Japanese government strongly protests the visit.

Efforts to resolve the territorial dispute have largely stalled over the years, with diplomatic relations between Japan and Russia recently strained further due to Japan's sanctions on Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine in 2022. Past visits by Russian officials to the islands have also drawn protests from Japan.

Moreover, the Kuril Islands hold strategic significance for Russia, which has increased its military foothold in the region over the last decade. Iturup is reportedly one of the primary military air bases for Russia in that area. 

In recent activities, Russian and Chinese naval vessels conducted joint patrols in the Kuril islands, and Russian military drills near the islands have attracted condemnation from Japan. The diplomatic tensions remain a pressing issue as both nations navigate their complex historical claims and modern geopolitical realities.