Russia’s Kuril Island drills and Putin visit raise tensions with Japan
Russia staged naval and missile exercises around the disputed Kuril Islands after President Vladimir Putin’s visit, prompting Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to label the actions unacceptable.
President Vladimir Putin made his first trip to the Kuril Islands in 25 years, inspecting infrastructure on Iturup Island and stressing Russian sovereignty over the chain. Within days, the Russian Navy conducted drills that saw the Slava-class cruiser Varyag launch two Vulkan anti-ship missiles, the Oscar-class submarine Omsk fire a Granit cruise missile, and island coastal defenses fire multiple Onika cruise missiles.
Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi condemned the visit and exercises as “absolutely unacceptable,” saying they hurt Japanese sentiment and strain ties. The Kuril dispute stems from the end of World War II, with both sides citing historic claims and strategic value, including secure naval access for the Pacific Fleet and abundant fishing grounds. Relations have soured further since Russia’s 2022 invasion of Ukraine, after which Japan imposed sanctions and labeled Russia unfriendly. The recent maneuvers underscore the islands’ role as a volatile flashpoint in East Asian security.
Why it matters
The drills heighten Russian pressure on a long-standing territorial dispute, risking further strain between Japan and Russia.
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