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Japan protests Putin visit to disputed islands

Tokyo has called in the Russian ambassador following a presidential trip to territory claimed by both nations.

Added 8/14/2026

Satellite photo of Hokkaido and the southern Kuril islands. Habomai Islands, Shikotan, Kunashiri (Kunashir) and Etorofu (Iturup). It is claimed by Japan as the Northern territories.
Visible Earth is part of the EOS Project Science Office at NASA Goddard Space Flight Center, Public domain, via Wikimedia CommonsPublic domainWikimedia Commons

Vladimir Putin traveled to the far-eastern Kuril chain for the first time, sparking a sharp reaction from Japanese officials. According to dw.com, the Foreign Ministry formally summoned Moscow's envoy to register a forceful objection over the journey.

Tokyo maintains historical claims over four islands in the region that were taken by Soviet forces near the conclusion of the Second World War. During his time on the territory, the Russian leader toured a local facility that processes fish and received caviar.

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Original reporting at dw.com

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