Japan Mulling Measures against Putin's Visit to Disputed Island

Tokyo, Aug. 14 (Jiji Press) -- Japan is weighing potential measures in response to Russian President Vladimir Putin's visit to one of the disputed islands controlled by Russia, known as the Northern Territories. The government is considering tightening economic sanctions on Russia and potentially recalling Japan's ambassador to the country.

However, careful consideration is necessary, as Russia supplies around 10% of Japan's liquefied natural gas imports. Discussions on the appropriate response took place among senior officials of Japan's Foreign Ministry throughout Friday. An unnamed official revealed, "We are discussing how to respond." Putin's visit to Etorofu, the largest of the four northern islands at the heart of the territorial dispute, occurred on Thursday, marking his first visit to any of the islands.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi swiftly condemned the visit, stating it was "incompatible with Japan's consistent position and is absolutely unacceptable." In response, Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi summoned the Russian Ambassador to Japan, Nikolay Nozdrev, to the Foreign Ministry and lodged a strong protest.