The Russian President has publicly claimed that the disputed Northern Territories are parts of Russian territory. This declaration comes amidst long-standing tensions between Japan and Russia over these territories, which were seized by the Soviet Union during the closing stages of World War II. Japan has persistently sought the return of these territories, however, Russia has continued to maintain its control.

In Japan, this issue carries deep national sentiment, as these territories are considered as part of Japan's rightful homeland. Japanese nationals and government often cite historical and legal arguments to support their claim. The government has even established a national 'Northern Territories Day' to reaffirm national sentiment towards this issue.

The territorial disputes on a global scale are often handled with diplomatic negotiations and international law in the US and EU. However, unlike Japan, neither the US nor EU has direct territorial disputes with Russia that match the complexities faced in this scenario.