Japan Protests Putin Visit to Disputed Islands; US Backs Sovereignty

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Kuril Islands, an archipelago claimed by Japan, prompting a diplomatic protest from Tokyo.

Putin visited a fish plant, hospital, and school on Iturup, one of the southern islands. Japan asserts territorial rights to the four southernmost islands, which it calls the Northern Territories, and the Soviet Union took them from Japan in the final days of World War II. Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated that the Northern Territories are Japan’s inherent territory and summoned the Russian Ambassador to lodge a protest.

The Russian Embassy in Japan called Tokyo’s protest “unfounded,” asserting the islands are an integral part of the Russian Federation. The United States reaffirmed its support for Japan’s sovereignty over the islands. US Ambassador to Tokyo George Glass stated the US remains unwavering in its support and recognition of Japanese sovereignty. Japan is considering its response, which could include strengthening economic sanctions or temporarily recalling its ambassador, though Japan relies on Russia for approximately 10% of its liquefied natural gas imports.

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi also criticized Putin’s visit, calling the islands “inherently Japanese territory.” The dispute has prevented Japan and Russia from signing a peace treaty formally ending their hostilities, though they terminated the state of war in 1956. Moscow has bolstered its military presence on the Kurils over the years.