MOSCOW: Russia has sharply criticised Japan over statements concerning President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Iturup Island, with Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Maria Zakharova calling Tokyo’s remarks “unacceptable.”
In a statement dated August 13, Zakharova rejected criticism attributed to Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi, arguing that Japan had no authority to question where the Russian president travels within territory claimed by Moscow.
Russia maintains that the Kuril Islands, including Iturup, are part of its sovereign territory and says their status was settled following World War II. Japan disputes Russian control over the southern islands, which remain a longstanding source of tension between the two countries.
Zakharova also accused Tokyo of damaging bilateral relations through sanctions against Russia and support for Ukraine, while describing Japan’s position on the territorial dispute as increasingly confrontational.
Japan’s official government website confirms Sanae Takaichi as prime minister, while the Foreign Ministry identifies Toshimitsu Motegi as foreign minister
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