The Russian President unexpectedly visited Iturup Island, sparking discussions in Japan. Iturup, known as Etorofu in Japan, is one of the disputed Kuril Islands that have been a long-standing subject of disagreement between Russia and Japan since World War II. The Japanese government reacted strongly to this visit, which they see as an attempt to assert Russian sovereignty. This story involves issues of national security and diplomatic relations.

Japan and Russia never formally ended WWII due to this territorial dispute over the Kuril Islands, which includes Iturup. This move by the Russian President is seen as highly provocative in Japan, challenging the nation's claim to the islands and stirring up nationalist sentiments. It also impacts Japan's diplomatic stance toward Russia, adding complexity to their ongoing negotiations.

In the US or EU, unilateral moves by another country that may upset the status quo, especially on disputed territories, are typically met with strong criticism. Recent Russian actions in Ukraine or China's claims in the South China Sea have seen strong responses from the US and EU, especially in international diplomacy platforms like the United Nations.