Russia summons Japanese envoy following Putin’s visit to disputed islands

MOSCOW (AP) — Russia's Foreign Ministry summoned Japan's ambassador on Tuesday to protest Tokyo's criticism of President Vladimir Putin's visit to the disputed Kuril Islands. The archipelago, controlled by Moscow, is claimed by both nations. Last week, Putin visited Iturup, one of the southernmost islands, a first for him. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called Putin's visit "incompatible with the Japanese position on the Northern Territories," which Japan holds as its inherent territory.

Japan's Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi strongly protested the visit, stating that the islands are "Japan's inherent territory both historically and from the perspective of international law." Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin met with Japanese Ambassador Akira Muto to formally protest Tokyo's statements, asserting Russia's sovereignty over the islands since World War II.

Galuzin warned of potential countermeasures from Moscow, citing Tokyo's Western sanctions and support for Ukraine. Japan has imposed sanctions on Russia since its invasion of Ukraine in February 2022. Despite decades of diplomatic efforts, no resolution has been reached, and Moscow has increased its military presence on the Kurils.