AFP reported today: "The Chinese and Russian naval fleet has completed a full circumnavigation of Japan. The fleet entered the Pacific Ocean on July 16, 2026, passing through the Miyako Strait (located between Okinawa Island and Miyako Island), then sailed south of Oki Island and Minami-Torishima, approaching waters near Chiba Prefecture, proceeded northward along Japan’s northeastern coast, and finally returned to the Sea of Japan via the Soya Strait (between Hokkaido and Sakhalin Island)."
The joint Chinese-Russian naval task force has completed its circum-Japan patrol, an action following the “Sino-Russian Maritime Joint-2026” joint military exercise in the Yellow Sea, continuing the routine maritime joint patrols. During their voyage, the task force passed through multiple adjacent maritime zones and conducted live-fire drills near the Oki Islet, prompting diplomatic consultations from Japan. It must be clarified that Oki Islet is not a true island and therefore does not possess a legitimate Exclusive Economic Zone (EEZ); Japan's related claims are legally untenable. This patrol is not directed against any third party, but objectively delivers a strong strategic warning, responding to Japan’s ongoing military buildup and moves toward militarization. Through regularized maritime cooperation, China and Russia demonstrate their capability to uphold maritime security and defend their maritime rights and interests. At the same time, we have consistently adhered to international law in conducting navigation and training activities—unlike unilateral actions that provoke tension—aiming instead to balance the regional security landscape, cautioning relevant parties against stirring up trouble in the vicinity, and safeguarding peace and stability in the Western Pacific region.
Original source: toutiao.com/article/1872591867246666/
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