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‘Absolutely unacceptable’: Japan condemns visit by Vladimir Putin to disputed Kuril Islands

Japanese PM says islands seized by Soviets late in second world war are part of her country under international law The Japanese government has reacted angrily to Vladimir Putin’s first visit to the disputed Kuril Islands, which are claimed by both Tokyo and Moscow. Japan’s foreign minister, Toshimi

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Why it matters

Japan claims the islands under international law but Russia controls them. Putin's visit signals Russian intent to maintain sovereignty over territory Japan disputes, deepening a longstanding territorial disagreement between the countries.

Most affected

Japan — Russia's actions reinforce its claim to islands Japan asserts it owns.
Russian-Japanese relations — Tensions escalate over unresolved territorial dispute dating to World War II.

Watch next

Whether Japan lodges a formal diplomatic protest or escalates its response beyond condemnation.

Read it at The Guardian