Putin Says Japan Responsible for Worsening Ties With Russia

Russian President Vladimir Putin asserted on September 2 that Japan is solely accountable for the deterioration of bilateral relations, in response to Tokyo's criticism of his August visit to Etorofu Island. Addressing reporters in Kyrgyzstan during his visit, Putin expressed no surprise at Japan's reaction to his Etorofu trip, stating that Russia had conducted its dealings with Tokyo "very cautiously."

Separately, Putin met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 1, signaling that Russia intends to continue supporting Iran. However, a typhoon near Japan posed risks, including heavy rain, stronger winds, and rising waves, as it lingered nearby. Japan introduced changes to Haneda Airport on September 2, including a new boarding facility and a reduced checked-baggage deadline.

Universal Studios Japan considered expanding its land area by roughly 10%. Japan also planned to lower the speed limit on residential roads from 60 km/h to 30 km/h. The Centrist Reform Alliance, consisting of the Constitutional Democratic Party of Japan and Komeito, decided to disband their merger plans, leaving the Centrist Reform Alliance effectively divided.

Japan sought to enhance its defenses against mass drone attacks, with Terra Drone becoming the sole company to advance in a Defense Ministry program for a Japanese-made interceptor drone. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi addressed concerns over her government's spending plans, aiming to cap new bond issuance at around 40 trillion yen in the fiscal 2027 budget while pursuing various economic measures.