Putin Visit to Iturup Triggers Japan Protests

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Etorofu (Iturup), one of the Kuril Islands disputed with Japan, drawing Tokyo's condemnation as an unacceptable challenge to sovereignty and warning it would harm bilateral ties. Moscow reaffirmed that the four Northern Territories are part of Russia, citing postwar border changes and international documents, while Japan reiterates the 19th-century claim and seeks a peace treaty. Japan’s government and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi condemned the visit and summoned Russia's ambassador to lodge a formal protest, signaling a further deterioration in ties. The islands, captured in 1945, were historically inhabited by Japanese nationals displaced by Soviet forces and are now populated by Russian citizens, adding humanitarian and diplomatic complexities. Ukraine’s acting foreign minister condemned the move and urged partners to isolate Russia further, stressing that the Kurils are Japan’s territory under international law. The incident highlights enduring Cold War-era tensions, with Moscow framing the visit as asserting reality and Japan pursuing resolution through negotiation and a peace treaty.