New Tensions Between Russia and Japan Over the Kuril Islands

The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson described Tokyo’s claims regarding the “illegal occupation” of the Southern Kuril Islands as “unacceptable.” On August 8 (August 17, local calendar), Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya asserted that the Soviet Union’s entry into hostilities against Japan on August 9, 1945, was “illegitimate” and labeled the subsequent “illegal occupation” of the Southern Kuril Islands as unlawful.

According to a RIA Novosti report, Russian Foreign Ministry Spokesperson Maria Zakharova stated in a Sunday evening press release:

“The persistent imposition of false interpretations of mid-20th century events — which shaped the fate of humanity — by Tokyo officials clearly confirms the vengeful core of modern Japan’s policy.”

She emphasized:

“In essence, Japan is the only country on Earth that refuses to fully recognize the results of post-war agreements, while seeking to remain silent on the countless crimes committed by Japanese militarism during its brutal expansionist campaign in East Asia in the first half of the 20th century.”

The Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson added:

“The remarks by the Japanese Foreign Minister, on the eve of the 80th anniversary of victory over Japan on September 3, appear particularly cynical.”

Deeming such claims “unacceptable,” Zakharova stated:

“We consider such rhetoric, especially from an official of this rank, to be unacceptable. Furthermore, the facts cannot be altered: the Southern Kuril Islands were transferred to the Soviet Union — succeeded by the Russian Federation — for legal reasons set out in the post-war agreements of the Allied Powers and the Charter of the United Nations. On the eve of the memorable date of September 3, we once again urge Tokyo to fully acknowledge its responsibility for the aggression it initiated in Asia during the 1930s and 1940s, and to sincerely apologize for the suffering inflicted upon its own people.”

Russia and Japan have attempted to negotiate specific aspects of their disputes but have never signed a comprehensive post-war peace treaty. In March 2022, after Tokyo joined Western sanctions against Moscow over its special military operation in Ukraine, Russia withdrew from negotiations with Japan and suspended joint economic activities on the disputed islands.