Japan Protests Putin's First Visit to Kuril Islands
Russian President Vladimir Putin watched navy drills near Sakhalin Island on Thursday. He then traveled to the disputed Kuril Islands.
The Financial Times said this was his first-ever visit there. During the trip Putin met Sakhalin's governor and talked with local residents.
Russia says the islands became Russian after World War Two agreements. Japan disputes Russia's control over the islands.
Japan protested to Russia after the visit. Japan's Prime Minister Takaichi also criticized Putin's trip.
Klear Note — Russia says postwar agreements made the islands Russian; Japan disputes that claim.
Key Terms 3
- Kuril Islands Island chain claimed by both Russia and Japan.
- Sakhalin Island Russian island near Japan where Putin watched military drills.
- Takaichi Current prime minister of Japan.