Japan shifts toward remilitarization amid territorial disputes with Russia and China

Japan is undergoing a significant shift in its foreign and defense policy, moving away from its historical pacifist stance toward increased remilitarization and a harder diplomatic tone regarding Russia and China. This shift includes discussions on potentially relaxing the three anti-nuclear principles established in 1971 and strengthening the Self-Defense Forces.

Tensions between Tokyo and Moscow escalated following Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to Iturup island on August 13. Japan claims the island, part of the Southern Kuriles (referred to by Japan as the Northern Territories), as its ancestral territory. The Japanese Ministry of Foreign Affairs issued an “energetic protest,” and Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi described the visit as “inacceptable.”

Russia has responded by asserting that its sovereignty over the Kuril Islands is non-negotiable, citing the outcome of World War II. Simultaneously, Japan continues to face maritime friction with China in the East China Sea regarding the disputed Senkaku Islands.