Putin’s Visit to Kuril Islands Sparks Protests from Japan

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Kuril Islands on Thursday, marking his first visit to the Russian-controlled islands also claimed by Japan. This move has drawn significant protests from Tokyo.

Key Locations Visited

During his visit, Putin stopped at various locations on Iturup Island, including a fish plant, a hospital, and a school. He also engaged briefly with local residents and met with Valery Limarenko, the governor of Russia’s Sakhalin region.

Historical Context

Japan asserts territorial claims over the four southernmost islands in the chain, which they refer to as the Northern Territories. These islands were seized by the Soviet Union from Japan in the final days of World War II. This territorial dispute has impeded the signing of a peace treaty formally ending hostilities between Japan and Russia. Despite decades of diplomatic negotiations, no resolution has been reached.

Moscow has increased its military presence on the Kuril Islands over the years, reinforcing its stance in the ongoing dispute.

Japan’s Reaction

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi issued a strong protest against Putin’s visit to Iturup, which Japan calls Etorofu. In a statement, Motegi emphasized that the Northern Territories, including Etorofu Island, historically and legally belong to Japan.

Japan had also protested in 2021 when Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin visited Iturup.

Putin’s Recent Activities

In recent days, Putin has traveled through Siberia and the Russian Far East. Before arriving in Iturup, he visited Sakhalin Island to observe the final phase of the Russian Pacific Fleet’s drills.

Speaking aboard a participating warship, Putin explained that the current status of the Kuril Islands is based on international documents sealed after World War II. Yet, he acknowledged Russia’s willingness to pursue a peace treaty with Japan.

Putin recalled past constructive relations with certain Japanese leaders, notably the late former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, who worked to strengthen ties between the two nations.

Current Relations

Putin noted a shift in Japan’s position following its imposition of sanctions on Russia after Russian military actions in Ukraine in February 2022. Nonetheless, Putin reiterated Russia’s openness to cooperate with Japan and other regional neighbors.