Russia Summons Japanese Ambassador Following Putin's Visit to Disputed Islands

Russia summoned Japan's ambassador to Moscow on Tuesday to protest remarks made by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The diplomatic tension follows a visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to one of the disputed Kuril Islands, known in Japan as the Northern Territories, last Thursday. Prime Minister Takaichi described the visit as grave and absolutely unacceptable, asserting that the territories are inherently part of Japan historically and under international law.

During the meeting at the Russian Foreign Ministry, Russian officials characterized Japan's claims as illegal and described the Prime Minister's comments as anti Russian. Russian officials stated that sovereignty over the islands is immutable based on the results of World War II. The Russian side further warned that it reserves the right to take countermeasures if Japan continues its sanctions and support for Ukraine. Ambassador Ken Muto left the meeting after approximately 25 to 30 minutes without making a public comment.

Relations between the two nations have deteriorated since the 2022 invasion of Ukraine. Japan has joined G7 sanctions and provided non lethal aid to Ukraine, including the export of Patriot interceptor missiles to the United States to replenish stockpiles used by Kyiv. Analysts suggest Putin's visit may serve as a warning to Japan against deepening its military cooperation with NATO or providing direct lethal aid to Ukraine.