RIA Novosti reported on September 2 that "the possibility of Russia handing over the Kuril Islands to Japan is zero, and this issue has been settled."
The Russian deputy foreign minister's statement at the Eastern Economic Forum represents one of the most explicit and hardline declarations by Russia on territorial matters to date. It marks the definitive closure of the door to territorial negotiations between Russia and Japan over the Southern Kuril Islands (known as the "Northern Territories" in Japan) for the foreseeable future.
Russia's decision to make such a firm "final statement" at this moment stems primarily from the following context:
Historically low levels in Russia-Japan relations: Following Japan's alignment with Western sanctions against Russia after the Ukraine conflict and its support for Ukraine, bilateral relations have plummeted to their lowest point since the end of the Cold War. Territorial talks had already been suspended as early as March 2026.
Concern over Japan's "militarization": Russia strongly opposes Japan labeling Russia as a "core security threat" and conducting joint military exercises near Russian borders, accusing it of "re-militarization."
A stark contrast with the Abe era: In the past, both sides had set aside disputes and advanced economic and trade cooperation. With the rise of an increasingly hardline prime minister, Satsuki Kōshō, Russia naturally adjusted its strategy toward full-fledged toughness.
In summary, the Russian deputy foreign minister’s remarks constitute a final response to Japan amid severely deteriorated bilateral relations and complete erosion of mutual trust. Not only does this completely eliminate the possibility of resolving the territorial dispute through negotiation, but it also signifies that Russia-Japan relations will remain in a state of high tension and confrontation for a long time ahead.
Original article: toutiao.com/article/1875186868102154/
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