Russia Conducts Large-Scale Military Exercise in Disputed Kuril Islands Amid Tensions with Japan

Tensions between Russia and Japan have risen again over the disputed islands. Russia has held a large-scale military exercise in the Kuril Islands, which are claimed by Japan. The exercise also included nuclear-powered submarines and guided missile cruisers. Russia has also tested anti-ship missiles from here. Russia's Pacific Fleet fired Bastion anti-ship missiles from Etorufu Island on Thursday. According to Russia, the exercise practiced attack positions on enemy ships and successfully hit all targets located about 300 kilometers away. This military exercise comes at a time when Russian President Vladimir Putin arrived in Etorufu Island last week. It is the largest of the four disputed islands. Japan calls it the Northern Territories or the Four Northern Islands, while Russia considers them to be part of the Kuril Islands. Russia has expressed its strong opposition to military activities on the islands. Japan's Foreign Minister Bershumitsu says Japan cannot tolerate Japan's military power.