Russia Rules Out Peace Treaty Talks with Japan Amid Diplomatic Tensions

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko declared the impossibility of resuming peace treaty discussions with Japan, citing unprecedentedly low relations due to Japan's "short-sighted policy."

Rudenko emphasized the necessity for Tokyo to abandon hostile actions toward Russia for any normalization. He highlighted the shift in negotiations from a post-war treaty to a comprehensive document on peace and friendship.

Rudenko criticized Japan's response to Russia's military operation, citing sanctions and anti-Russian sentiments. The longstanding dispute over the southern Kuril Islands remains a major obstacle. Talks have stalled since Japan imposed sanctions in response to the Ukraine situation, leading Russia to suspend negotiations. Russia maintains its sovereignty over the islands and asserts its commitment to international agreements.