Putin visited Kuril Islands to 'punish' Japan over Ukraine stance
Analysts have said a visit by Russia's leader to a disputed island chain sent a "message" to Japan, which for decades has sought to reclaim control of the territory.
Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first-ever visit to the disputed Kuril Islands, off the northern tip of Japan, last week. This move has sparked a strong reaction from Tokyo, with Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi calling the visit "absolutely unacceptable." The islands, known as the Northern Territories by Japan, are considered an integral part of Russia by Moscow.
The Kuril Islands were taken by Soviet forces in the weeks following Japan's surrender in World War II, with the Japanese residents being forcibly evacuated. Putin's visit included stops at a school, a hospital, and industrial facilities on Iturup, also known as Etorofu. This action was seen as a message to Japan, according to James Brown, a professor specializing in Russian affairs.
The visit comes two days before the 81st anniversary of Japan's surrender in World War II and is seen as a way for Russia to punish Japan for its support of Ukraine and growing ties with NATO. Russia's actions are driven by a mix of foreign policy and domestic considerations, with nationalist sentiment bolstered by state propaganda.
Despite Japan's consistent stance that the islands were illegally annexed, no progress has been made in resolving the issue. Even if Putin steps down from power, there is no indication that a new Russian government would prioritize returning the islands.
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