Diplomatic dispute between Russia and Japan over visit to the Kuril Islands
The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs summoned Russian Ambassador Nikolay Nozdrev to lodge an official protest. The cause of the diplomatic discontent was the recent visit of Russian President Vladimir Putin to Iturup Island, which is part of the Kuril chain.
The Japanese side considers these territories to be its "Northern Territories" and regularly expresses protests in response to any actions by Russia in this region. Tokyo insists that the islands should be returned to its jurisdiction, however, Moscow emphasizes that Russia's sovereignty over the Kurils is not up for discussion.
In response to the actions of the Japanese Foreign Ministry, the Russian side also summoned the Japanese ambassador. The Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs stated that such protests from Tokyo constitute interference in the country's internal affairs and do not contribute to the development of bilateral relations.
At the moment, the situation remains tense. Diplomats from both countries continue to exchange official statements, reaffirming their positions on the territorial issue. This incident has become another stage in a long-standing dispute that complicates political and economic ties between Moscow and Tokyo.