Putin’s Kuril Islands visit draws strong protest from Japan’s prime minister

13 August, 2026, 10:15 pm

Last modified: 13 August, 2026, 10:20 pm

Putin’s Kuril Islands visit draws strong protest from Japan’s prime minister

13 August, 2026, 10:15 pm

Last modified: 13 August, 2026, 10:20 pm

Vladimir Putin's first-ever visit to the disputed Kuril Islands has sparked strong condemnation from Japan. Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi called the Iturup visit "absolutely unacceptable", while Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi issued a formal protest. The visit comes amid long-running territorial tensions, military activity and strained Japan-Russia relations.

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