Putin's Historic Visit to Disputed Kuril Islands Sends Strong Geopolitical Message

Russian President Vladimir Putin recently visited Ichurup Island in the disputed Kuril Islands. According to Russian media, this is the first time in history that a Russian president has personally visited the disputed islands. Significantly, Putin's visit comes at a time when relations between Moscow and Tokyo are at their lowest point due to the Ukraine war. The historic move by the Russian president is seen as not just a normal visit but also a strong geopolitical message. The roots of this territorial dispute go back to the last days of World War II, i.e. August 1945. At the end of the war, the army of the Soviet Union (which is now Russia) occupied these islands. Japan considers them its territory and calls them the'Northern Territories ', although in Japan their names are Etorufu, Kunashiri, Hakota, and Imai. Understand that these islands are located in the far north of Russia and Japan, in addition to the silver, gold, and mineral resources that make them a strategic fishing port.