Tensions Rise as Russian Troops Drill on Disputed Island

Russian missile troops conducted exercises on a contested island claimed by both Japan and Russia. The ongoing dispute over these islands, taken by Soviet forces at the end of World War Two, has hindered peace treaty negotiations between the countries. Russia’s military activities highlight growing tensions.

Russian missile troops have conducted exercises on a contested island claimed by both Japan and Russia, according to a report from Interfax citing Russia's Defence Ministry on Thursday.

Soviet forces seized control of the four islands near Japan's Hokkaido—known in Russia as the Kurils and in Japan as the Northern Territories—at the close of World War Two. The dispute has been a major obstacle preventing the two nations from signing a peace treaty. Interfax reported that Russian troops practiced moving and camouflaging their vehicles on Matua island. Moscow announced plans in May to set up observation posts on the islands.

In recent months, tensions have escalated as Russia resists the growing military alliance between the United States and Japan, viewing it as a barrier to any potential peace agreement with Tokyo. Kremlin spokesman Dmitry Peskov noted earlier this week that Japan's alignment with what he termed 'the collective West' is detrimental to Russia-Japan relations.

(With inputs from agencies.)