Russia’s Putin lands on disputed Kurils, Japan calls visit ‘absolutely unacceptable’
MOSCOW, Aug 13 — President Vladimir Putin visited Russia’s far-eastern Kuril islands for the first time on T...
On August 13, President Vladimir Putin made his first visit to Russia's disputed Kuril islands, prompting a strong reaction from Japan. The Kuril islands, known as the Northern Territories in Japan, were seized by the Soviet Union in 1945 and have been a point of contention ever since. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called Putin's visit "absolutely unacceptable" and emphasized that the islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory, both historically and under international law.
Putin's trip came after a visit to the nearby island of Sakhalin, where he discussed security measures for Russia's eastern borders. The strained relations between Japan and Russia have worsened since the start of the Ukraine conflict in 2022, with Japan joining other G7 countries in sanctioning Russia and providing aid to Ukraine.
Putin has responded by calling Japan's sanctions "unprovoked" and highlighting territorial claims against Japan. The visit to the Kuril islands, with their strategic military installations and harsh climate, serves as a reminder of Russia's resolve and displeasure with Japan's continued sanctions in the wake of the Ukraine war.
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