Putin pays his first visit to Pacific island chain claimed by Japan, drawing protest from Tokyo

Russian President Vladimir Putin visited the Kuril Islands, specifically the island of Iturup, marking his first trip to the disputed territory. During the visit, he toured local infrastructure including a fish processing plant, a hospital, and a school to observe regional development.

The island chain is currently under Russian administration but is also claimed by Japan, which refers to the territory as the Northern Territories. Following the visit, the Japanese government issued a formal protest regarding the Russian leader's presence on the islands.