A decades-old territorial dispute between Japan and Russia has flared again after Vladimir Putin made his first visit to the disputed Kuril islands.
Putin travelled to Iturup, one of four southern islands claimed by Japan but administered by Russia.
The visit immediately drew a sharp response from Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi, who called it “absolutely unacceptable”.
Why does a short island visit matter so much?
Because the dispute has kept Tokyo and Moscow from signing a formal post-World War Two peace treaty.
Japan considers the islands its “Northern Territories”, arguing they are historically and legally Japanese.
Russia, which took control of the chain after World War Two, maintains sovereignty over them.
Trip Fuels Japan Tensions
Takaichi said Putin’s visit had “worsened Japanese sentiment towards Russia” and “wounds the feelings of the Japanese people”.
Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi likewise called the islands inherently Japanese and lodged a formal protest.
The dispute is about more than history. The Kurils are strategically important to Moscow, which has strengthened its military presence there, including an air base on Iturup.
Russian and Chinese warships have also recently conducted a joint patrol through the islands.
With Japan already imposing sanctions on Russia over Ukraine, Putin’s visit adds another layer of tension.
Sometimes, a few hours on a remote island can reopen decades-old wounds.
