Putin Visits Disputed Kuril Islands, Stirs Japanese Protests

Russian President Vladimir Putin traveled to the Kuril Islands, a Pacific island chain controlled by Russia and claimed by Japan. His visit to the islands marked the first time he has set foot there, prompting protests from Tokyo.

During his trip to Iturup, one of the chain’s southernmost islands, Putin toured various local sites. He visited a fish processing plant, a hospital, and a school, engaging briefly with residents and meeting Sakhalin region governor, Valery Limarenko.

Japan maintains that the four southernmost islands, referred to as the Northern Territories, rightfully belong to them. These islands were taken by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II. The long-standing territorial dispute has prevented the two nations from signing a formal peace treaty to conclude WWII hostilities.

Despite decades of diplomatic negotiations, no progress has been made towards resolving the issue. Meanwhile, Russia has increased its military presence on the Kuril Islands to reinforce its claim.

Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi expressed strong protest against Putin’s visit to Iturup, known in Japan as Etorofu. In a public statement, Motegi asserted, “The Northern Territories, including Etorofu Island, are Japan’s inherent territory both historically and from the perspective of international law.”

The Japanese government also expressed disapproval in 2021 when Russian Prime Minister Mikhail Mishustin visited Iturup.

Earlier in his tour, Putin stopped on Sakhalin Island to observe the closing phase of Russian Pacific Fleet military exercises. Speaking to personnel aboard a warship, Putin emphasized that the current status of the Kuril Islands is established by international documents reflecting the outcomes of World War II. He noted Russia’s willingness to seek a resolution for a peace treaty with Japan.

Putin acknowledged past efforts by former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe to improve relations between the two nations. However, he highlighted a shift in Japan’s stance after imposing sanctions on Russia due to military actions in Ukraine.

Despite the political tensions, Putin expressed Russia’s readiness to cooperate with neighboring countries, including Japan.