Russia's missile tests around disputed islands anger Japan
Pacific fleet launched missile drills near what Moscow calls the Kuril Islands but Japan regards as its Northern Territories
TL;DR
- Japan has criticized Russia's recent missile tests conducted around disputed islands.
- Russia's Pacific fleet fired Bastion missiles from Etorofu, simulating an attack on enemy vessels.
- The drills involved a nuclear-powered submarine and a guided-missile cruiser.
- Vladimir Putin visited Etorofu last week, leading to diplomatic exchanges between Tokyo and Moscow.
- Japan's foreign minister stated that military build-up on the islands is unacceptable.
- The dispute over the islands dates back to the 19th century, with the Soviet Union seizing them after World War II.
- Japan was informed in advance about the live-fire drills and lodged a protest on August 5th.
- The large-scale maneuvers involved around 60 ships, 30 aircraft, and over 13,000 personnel.
- Putin observed some exercises and commented on the region becoming prone to conflict.
- The Russian drills are scheduled to continue until August 29th.