Japan Protests Russian Missile Tests Off Disputed Islands
Japan protested after Russia fired missiles near the disputed islands, with the exercise involving a submarine, cruiser and coastal defense system hitting targets 300 km away.
- On Friday, Japan lodged a protest against Russia's decision to conduct missile tests off the disputed Kuril Islands. Russia's Pacific Fleet confirmed the drills targeted simulated enemy vessels during a recent naval exercise.
- President Vladimir Putin's official visit to the islands on August 13 exacerbated long-standing tensions over the Northern Territories. Japan maintains the islands are an inherent part of its territory, historically and under international law.
- Russia's Pacific Fleet utilized the Bastion coastal missile system firing an Oniks missile, while the flagship Varyag launched two Vulkan anti-ship missiles. The nuclear-powered submarine Omsk fired Granit cruise missiles, hitting targets at a range of at least 300 kilometres.
- Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi protested the buildup while in Oman on Thursday, calling Russia's military expansion 'unacceptable.' He stated Tokyo would respond by considering Japan's national interests regarding the Northern Territories.
- Relations have deteriorated since 2022, when Japan joined G-7 nations in sanctioning Moscow following the invasion of Ukraine. Analysts suggest Putin's visit warns Japan against deepening support for Ukraine, including potential Patriot missile supplies or closer NATO ties.
55 Articles
55 Articles
Russia has carried out a rocket test in front of the Kurile Islands in the Pacific. Targets simulating enemy ships have been attacked at a distance of more than 300 kilometers, the Russian Pacific fleet reported. Japan, which claims several islands of the archipelago for itself, came to criticism. "In response to the notification of the plan to carry out a rocket test, we protested, said a spokesman of the Japanese government. The Kurile Archipe…
These naval operations are part of large-scale manoeuvres initiated by Russia, which will continue until 29 August.
For decades, Japan has been demanding the return of several of the Kurile Islands occupied by Russia since 1945. A week ago, Putin, the leader of power, launched a visit to Tokyo by the Archipelago. Russia now wants to test missiles in front of the islands.
Tensions between Russia and Japan appear to be rising over the disputed islands. Russia has launched large-scale military exercises near the Kuril Islands, including the deployment of nuclear-powered submarines and guided missile cruisers. Russia has tested anti-ship missiles from Atorufu Island, a move Japan has strongly objected to.
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