Vladimir Putin visits Kuril Islands amid territorial dispute with Japan

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited Iturup, one of the southern Kuril Islands, on August 13. The visit represents the first time the Russian leader has traveled to the territory, which is currently under Russian control but claimed by Japan as part of its Northern Territories. Following the visit, the Japanese government issued a formal protest, with Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi describing the action as absolutely unacceptable.

The Kuril Islands were seized by the Soviet Union at the end of World War II, a move that has prevented Russia and Japan from establishing a formal peace treaty. Relations between the two countries have deteriorated further in recent years, particularly following the Russian invasion of Ukraine. Japan has consistently sought to reclaim the islands, but these efforts have remained unsuccessful as Russia continues to maintain its administrative and military presence in the region.