Japan PM Takaichi condemns Putin's visit to disputed Kuril Islands as 'absolutely unacceptable'; Foreign Minister Motegi says 'Japan strongly protests this visit'

Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has strongly condemned President Putin's visit to the disputed Kuril Islands, labeling it 'absolutely unacceptable.' This visit marks the first by a Russian president to the islands, which Japan claims as its own territory.

Takaichi stated that Tokyo had 'repeatedly requested the Russian side to ensure that the president does not visit the Northern Territories.' The islands were annexed by the Soviet Union during World War II, and Japan has never recognized Russian sovereignty over them.

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi also expressed Japan's discontent, asserting that 'Japan strongly protests this visit.' The visit comes in the wake of Japan's recent defense white paper, which identifies Russia as a critical threat, prompting a strong reaction from Moscow.

Analysts suggest that Putin's visit is a strategic move by the Kremlin to undermine Japan's defense capabilities and assert its presence in the region. The white paper states, 'Russia is continuing active military activities in the Northern Territories, which are inherent territories of Japan, under illegal occupation.' This ongoing tension highlights the complex geopolitical dynamics in the region, as Japan seeks to bolster its defense posture amidst perceived threats from both Russia and North Korea.