Former Northern Territories Residents Urge Early Return of Islands After Putin's Etorofu Visit

Russian President Vladimir Putin's recent visit to Etorofu Island, one of the four disputed islands known as the Northern Territories in Japan, has prompted a strong reaction from former residents.

An association of former islanders met with Japanese Vice Foreign Minister Kuniie Natayama to formally request that the government prioritize diplomatic negotiations aimed at securing the prompt return of all four islands. The visit underscores the ongoing territorial dispute between Japan and Russia, which has persisted since the end of World War II.

Putin's trip to Etorofu, which he referred to as the "Sakhalin Oblast," is seen by Japan as a direct challenge to its sovereignty claims. The former residents expressed their deep-seated desire for the islands, which they were forced to leave decades ago, to be returned to Japanese control. Their plea to the vice foreign minister highlights the emotional and historical weight of the territorial issue for many Japanese citizens.

The Japanese government has consistently maintained its position that the four islands, Etorofu, Kunashiri, Shikotan, and the Habomai islets, are integral parts of Japan's territory. The meeting with Vice Foreign Minister Natayama signifies the government's engagement with the concerns of the former residents while navigating complex diplomatic relations with Russia.

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We want to work towards the return of the four northern islands as soon as possible.