Russia summons Japanese envoy following Putin's visit to disputed islands

Key Points:

• Russia summoned the Japanese ambassador to protest Tokyo's condemnation of President Putin's visit to the Kuril Islands, a disputed territory controlled by Russia but claimed by Japan.
• Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi and Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi strongly opposed the visit, calling it unacceptable and reaffirming Japan's claim to the islands based on historical and international law grounds.
• Russia's Deputy Foreign Minister Mikhail Galuzin emphasized Moscow's sovereignty over the Kuril Islands, citing World War II agreements and warned of potential countermeasures due to Japan's support for Western sanctions against Russia.
• Diplomatic efforts to resolve the Kuril Islands dispute have stalled for decades, with Russia increasing its military presence on the islands, while Putin highlighted past constructive relations with Japanese leaders like Shinzo Abe.
• Japan's embassy stated that Ambassador Akira Muto explained Japan's position during the meeting but provided no details on any response to Russia's claims or possible retaliatory actions.