Russia Labels Japan’s Military Buildup a Regional Threat as China Echoes Concern

Overview

• The Russian Foreign Ministry said Japan’s remilitarization and pursuit of offensive capabilities endanger peace and stability in the Asia-Pacific.
• Moscow cited the removal of post-war pacifist constraints, sharply higher defense spending, and expanded drills with the United States and NATO partners.
• The ministry said it has issued warnings to Tokyo through diplomatic channels and public statements about actions that raise regional tensions.
• On access to graves in the Kuril Islands, Russia said visits are possible with Russian visas and accused Japan of politicizing travel by insisting on a visa-waiver route.
• China’s Foreign Ministry said Beijing shares Moscow’s view on Japan’s accelerated remilitarization, following comments by Russian Security Council Secretary Sergey Shoigu to Wang Yi.