Japan’s government is weighing countermeasures against Russia, including the possibility of stricter sanctions and recalling its ambassador, following President Vladimir Putin’s recent visit to one of the disputed Northern Territories, according to jiji.com.
The move comes after Putin traveled to Etorofu Island, part of the chain that Japan claims as its Northern Territories. Tokyo has long maintained that the islands are Japanese territory, and the visit has drawn a firm response from officials, jiji.com reports.
The Japanese government is now considering a range of options to signal its displeasure. Among the measures under discussion are enhanced economic sanctions against Moscow and the temporary recall of Japan’s ambassador to Russia, according to the report. No final decision has been announced.
The dispute over the islands, which Russia calls the Southern Kurils, has prevented the two countries from signing a formal peace treaty after World War II. The islands were seized by Soviet forces at the end of the war, and Japan has consistently sought their return.
The visit also appears to have drawn attention from other nations. The United States has expressed support for Japan’s position, with the State Department stating that it recognizes Japanese sovereignty over the Northern Territories, according to FNN Prime Online. Meanwhile, jiji.com also reported that China and Russia are taking a joint stance in showing a tough attitude toward Japan.
The U.S. ambassador to Japan has also voiced backing for Tokyo’s stance, per the same report. The situation adds another layer of tension to an already strained relationship between Japan and Russia.
Observers will be watching whether Tokyo follows through on the proposed measures, and how Moscow responds to any diplomatic or economic pushback.
