Putin Visits Disputed Islands, Japan Protests

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday visited the Kuril Islands for the first time, a Pacific island chain controlled by Russia but also claimed by Japan. The visit prompted an immediate protest from Tokyo. Putin toured a fish plant, a hospital, and a school on Iturup, one of the chain’s southernmost islands. He also briefly spoke with local residents. The Kuril Islands, known as the Northern Territories in Japan, have been a point of contention between the two countries since the end of World War II. Japan asserts sovereignty over the southernmost islands, while Russia has maintained control of them. Tokyo’s protest underscores the ongoing diplomatic friction over the territory. The visit marks a rare personal appearance by Putin in the disputed region, which could further strain relations between Russia and Japan.