Japan expressed strong objection to military exercises conducted by Russia’s Pacific fleet in waters surrounding islands claimed by both nations. The Russian navy carried out surface-to-ship missile tests from Etorofu, the largest island in the archipelago, with projectiles striking targets approximately 300 kilometers away. The operations involved substantial military resources, including a nuclear-powered submarine, a guided-missile cruiser, roughly 60 surface vessels and support craft, approximately 30 aircraft and helicopters, unmanned systems, and over 13,000 personnel.
The exercises commenced on 4 August, with Japan receiving advance notification of the planned live-fire drills. Japanese officials submitted a formal protest on 5 August regarding the scale of the maneuvers. Toshimitsu Motegi, Japan’s foreign minister, stated the nation could not accept military strengthening in the contested territory, asserting it contradicted Japan’s official position on the islands.
The disputed archipelago, referred to as the Northern Territories or Four Northern Islands by Japan and as part of the Kuril Islands by Russia, has been a source of contention dating to the 19th century. The Soviet Union obtained control of the islands from Japan following the conclusion of the second world war. The territorial dispute has remained unresolved for decades, with the islands’ status continuing to strain relations between the two countries.
Vladimir Putin visited the islands last week, including an observation of the ongoing drills aboard the flagship Varyag on 12 August. His visit prompted reciprocal diplomatic tensions, resulting in ambassadors being summoned to capitals in both Tokyo and Moscow. Russian officials characterized the exercises as necessary responses to perceived regional security threats, citing NATO activities and emerging military coalitions as concerns. The scheduled drills are set to conclude through 29 August.
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