Putin Says Japan Responsible for Worsening Ties With Russia

Sep 02, 2026 | News On Japan

Kyrgyzstan - Russian President Vladimir Putin said on September 2 that Japan bears full responsibility for the deterioration in relations between the two countries, defending Moscow's approach following criticism from Tokyo over his first visit to Etorofu Island in August.

Speaking to reporters in Kyrgyzstan during a visit to the Central Asian country, Putin said the worsening of Japan-Russia relations was "entirely Japan's responsibility."

Referring to Japan's reaction to his August visit to Etorofu, Putin said he was "not surprised" by the criticism.

Putin maintained that Russia had done nothing to worsen relations with Japan and said Moscow had handled its dealings with Tokyo "very cautiously."

Separately, Putin met Iranian President Masoud Pezeshkian on September 1 and indicated that Russia intends to continue providing support to Iran.

Source: テレ東BIZ

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