Russia tests missiles near disputed Kuril Islands, stoking Tokyo tensions — Bloomberg
Russia conducted rare live-fire missile drills utilizing naval vessels and a land-based coastal defense launcher near the disputed Kuril Islands claimed by Japan, Bloomberg reported on Aug. 21.
Russia carried out live-fire missile drills near the disputed Kuril Islands, igniting tensions in Tokyo, according to Bloomberg on August 21. The Russian Navy carried out the exercises from a nuclear-powered submarine, a guided-missile cruiser, and a coastal defense missile system stationed in the Southern Kuril Islands. The missiles hit targets over 300 kilometers away.
Japan's Foreign Minister, Toshimitsu Motegi, stated that Russia's military expansion near the islands directly goes against Japan's stance and is unacceptable. Russia has had control of the Southern Kuril Islands since the end of World War II, following Soviet forces' takeover from Japan. On August 13, Russian President Vladimir Putin made his first official visit to Iturup Island, sparking official protests from Tokyo.
These events coincide with Japan's alliance with Western allies who are providing economic sanctions to Russia in response to its invasion of Ukraine, as well as non-lethal defense aid to Ukraine, including body armor and transport vehicles.
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