The Japanese government strongly condemned Putin's first visit to the disputed Southern Kuril Islands, which are known as the "Northern Territories" by Japan. Prime Minister Sanae Kōchi stated that this move was absolutely unacceptable, emphasizing that these islands belong to Japan based on both historical grounds and international law. Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi summoned Russian Ambassador Nodzhdrev to lodge a protest. During his visit to what Russia calls Iturup Island, Putin toured a hospital and a caviar processing plant, met with local residents, and earlier inspected naval exercises on Sakhalin Island, asserting that international documents have recognized the disputed islands as part of Russia.
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Original article: toutiao.com/article/1873470922129547/
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