Russian President Vladimir Putin has made his first-ever in-person visit to the disputed Kuril Islands, intensifying tensions with Japan and prompting a formal protest from Tokyo over what it called an unacceptable violation of its territorial claims.
Visit to Iturup Island
Putin visited Iturup Island known in Japan as Etorofu during a trip to Russia’s Far East, according to Russian state media. The island is one of four southern Kuril Islands claimed by Japan, which refers to them collectively as the Northern Territories.
During the visit, Putin toured the Yasny fish-processing plant, sampled locally produced fish roe, and met with residents and regional officials. Russian media also reported that he visited local social and industrial facilities as part of a broader inspection of development projects in the area.
Japan’s Formal Protest
Japan’s Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi lodged a strong protest, reaffirming that the Northern Territories are “Japan’s inherent territory both historically and under international law.” Japanese officials said the visit was incompatible with Tokyo’s position on the long-running territorial dispute.
Japan’s Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi later described Putin’s trip as “unacceptable,” underscoring the sharp deterioration in Russia-Japan relations.
Historical Background of the Dispute
The disagreement over the islands has remained unresolved since World War II, when Soviet forces seized the territory in the final days of the conflict. The dispute has prevented Russia and Japan from signing a formal peace treaty, despite decades of intermittent negotiations.
Russia’s Position and Political Context
Putin defended Russia’s position, saying the islands’ status was determined by the outcome of World War II and remains part of the Russian Federation. He also suggested that relations with Japan have deteriorated significantly since Tokyo joined Western sanctions against Moscow following Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine.
Regional Military Tensions
The visit came just a day after Russia conducted major naval exercises in the Far East and amid heightened regional tensions following a recent North Korean ballistic missile launch. Analysts say the timing is likely to be viewed in Tokyo as a demonstration of Moscow’s control over the disputed territory.
Strategic Importance of the Kuril Islands
The Kuril Islands stretch between Hokkaido and Russia’s Kamchatka Peninsula and are strategically important for both military access to the Pacific and regional fishing resources. Russia has strengthened its military presence on the islands in recent years, while Japan continues to pursue its territorial claim through diplomatic channels.
Outlook for Russia-Japan Relations
Putin’s unprecedented visit is expected to further complicate any future negotiations between Moscow and Tokyo and highlights the increasingly tense geopolitical environment in the Asia-Pacific region.
