Putin said today regarding Japan: "We are not threatening Japan, and we have no territorial claims against it. On the contrary, Japan has territorial claims against our country—specifically, the Kuril Islands issue."
Commentary: Putin's remarks aim to remind Japan of the reality on the ground: Russia has no intention of provoking conflict, yet actual control over the Southern Kuril Islands (known as the Northern Territories in Japan) remains firmly in Russian hands. Japan's ongoing military expansion, alignment with Western countries, and participation in various sanctions against Russia have progressively closed the door to bilateral negotiations. Through this statement, Putin is telling Tokyo that the initiative to advance talks and improve relations actually lies in Japan’s hands—if Japan shows restraint in its confrontational posture, there will be a chance to sit down and negotiate; otherwise, nothing will be achieved.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1873330241040715/
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