Story perspectives

Japan's Takaichi Demands Return of Disputed Islands from Russia

2/8/2026

Summary

Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that the return of the disputed islands off Hokkaido is a top priority in Japan-Russia relations.
She urged Russia to allow former residents to visit gravesites, calling it a humanitarian issue.
Her remarks were made at a rally in Tokyo during Northern Territories Day, which commemorates a treaty declaring the islands as Japanese territory.
Japan maintains that the Northern Territories were illegally seized by the Soviet Union after World War II.
Russia contends the seizure was legitimate, and diplomatic relations remain strained, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

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Story summary

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi emphasized that the return of the disputed islands off Hokkaido is a top priority in Japan-Russia relations.
She urged Russia to allow former residents to visit gravesites, calling it a humanitarian issue.
Her remarks were made at a rally in Tokyo during Northern Territories Day, which commemorates a treaty declaring the islands as Japanese territory.
Japan maintains that the Northern Territories were illegally seized by the Soviet Union after World War II.
Russia contends the seizure was legitimate, and diplomatic relations remain strained, particularly after Russia's invasion of Ukraine.