Japan Minister Sparks Uproar After Remark Implying Kuril Islands Belong To Russia, Apologises Japan’s Minister for Okinawa and Northern Territories, Hitoshi Kikawada, is under fire after referring to the disputed Kuril Islands as “foreign land,” a remark seen as acknowledging Russian control. The comment triggered outrage in Tokyo and embarrassment for Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s government amid delicate peace overtures with Moscow. Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara rebuked Kikawada, reaffirming Japan’s claim over the islands. The minister later apologised, but critics warn the slip could damage Japan’s diplomatic credibility and rekindle long-standing tensions with Russia over the Northern Territories. Watch

See Full Page