Japan protests Russian missile tests near disputed Kuril Islands

Japan has lodged a protest with Russia following announcements of missile tests near the disputed Kuril Islands, which Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited.

Key points

• Russian Pacific Fleet units utilizing 'Bastion' coastal missile systems, the cruiser Varyag, and the nuclear submarine Omsk conducted missile exercises simulating attacks on enemy ships.
• The successful drills targeted objects located at a distance of at least 300 kilometers.
• The dispute over the islands, administered by Russia since 1945 and called the Northern Territories by Japan, saw heightened tensions after President Vladimir Putin's visit on August 13.
• Following Putin's visit, both nations took retaliatory steps by summoning each other's ambassadors.

Why it matters

The exchange of diplomatic protests and military exercises near the disputed Kuril Islands highlights ongoing bilateral tensions between Japan and Russia stemming from World War II legacies.