Tensions between Japan and Russia intensify over the ongoing Northern Territories dispute. Japan has lodged a diplomatic protest against Russia's military exercises in the region which Japan sees as a violation of its territorial sovereignty. Russia responds defiantly to Japan's protest, leading to escalated diplomatic tensions. The Northern Territories, comprising four islands, have been under Russian control since the end of World War II, but Japan continues to claim rights over these territories.

The dispute over the Northern Territories is a long-standing national issue within Japan, directly linked to the country's post-war history and its national sovereignty. The Japanese public generally supports the government's stance on reclaiming the territories. The matter invokes not just diplomatic, but also deep historical and emotional elements for Japanese people.

Similar territorial disputes occur globally. For example, in the EU, the UK and Spain continue to argue over Gibraltar. The difference, however, is in the approach to negotiation. While the EU prefers diplomatic negotiation and legal channels through international courts, tensions between Japan and Russia appear to be more hard-line, showing similarities with the ongoing disputes between U.S. and Russia over geopolitical issues.