Kuril Islands Visit Deepens Russia-Japan Territorial Dispute

The Soviet Union seized the Kuril Islands in 1945. This action created a territorial dispute that persists today. Soviet forces deported approximately 17,000 Japanese residents following the seizure. The islands prevent a formal peace treaty between Russia and Japan as of 2026.

1. Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Iturup on August 13, 2026. He performed administrative duties during the trip. The President also met with the regional governor.

2. The Russian government stated the visit addresses the needs of about 20,000 Russian citizens living on the islands.

3. Vladimir Putin inspected local infrastructure during his visit. He toured a fish-processing plant, a hospital, and a school.

4. On August 12, 2026, Russian President Vladimir Putin stated that Russia poses no threat to Japan. He characterized the sanctions imposed by the Japanese government as unprovoked.

1. Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called the visit "absolutely unacceptable." She cited the Japanese claim to the Northern Territories.

2. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi stated that the disputed islands are an inherent part of Japan's territory under international law.

3. The Japanese Foreign Ministry summoned the Russian ambassador to lodge a formal protest regarding the visit.

4. The visit draws attention to an unresolved territorial dispute. This disagreement has prevented Moscow and Tokyo from signing a formal World War II peace treaty for decades.