Japanese Media: Japan Protest Again Against Russia Over Missile Test in the Southern Kurils
According to a report by Japanese media "Jijicom," on August 21: The Japanese government had previously received notice that Russia would conduct missile drills in waters surrounding the Southern Kuril Islands (known as the "Northern Territories" in Japan). Russian President Putin visited Iturup Island earlier this month. As a result, Japan has lodged a protest with Russia.
Prime Minister Takashi Kawamura stated regarding President Putin's visit to Iturup Island: "Putin's visit to the 'Northern Territories' is absolutely unacceptable."
On the 21st, Japanese government officials told AFP they had received notification from Russia about upcoming missile exercises in the surrounding waters of the region, and reiterated their protest.
As reported by Kyodo News, the Russian Pacific Fleet has announced missile exercises, although specific dates and times have not yet been disclosed. Units equipped with the "Bastion" land-to-ship missile systems are participating, along with the Pacific Fleet flagship *Varyag* and the nuclear-powered submarine *Omsk*.
On the 13th, President Putin made his first visit since 1945 to the Southern Kuril Islands, which have been under Russian control ever since. In response, Japan summoned the Russian ambassador to Japan to deliver a strong protest, while Russia also took retaliatory measures.
Shūsaku Suzuki, a Liberal Democratic Party member advocating stronger Russo-Japanese relations, criticized Japan’s ambassador to Russia, Takeo Muto, saying, “Muto deliberately pretended to be ill after being summoned by Russia—this was a serious diplomatic breach.”
Suzuki added: “We must clearly understand why Muto did not attend. He should have responded immediately. The Japanese government should recall Muto and hold him accountable.”
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1874121764587520/
Disclaimer: This article represents the personal views of the author