Russia says Japan’s ‘irresponsible’ policy escalating tensions in Asia-Pacific region

Strong protest lodged with Japanese Embassy in Russia on Dec. 18 in connection with regular military exercises held on Hokkaido Island, says Foreign Ministry

By Burc Eruygur

ISTANBUL (AA) - Russia said on Thursday that the “irresponsible” policy of Japan’s current administration is putting Tokyo on the path of escalating tensions in the Asia-Pacific region.

“The irresponsible policy of (Japanese Prime Minister) Fumio Kishida’s administration is putting Tokyo on the path of escalating tensions in Northeast Asia and the Asia-Pacific region as a whole,” a Russian Foreign Ministry statement said.

The statement said this warning was given in a protest lodged with the Japanese Embassy in Russia on Dec. 18, in connection with regular military exercises held on Hokkaido Island with the participation of the US and Australian militaries.

“We indicated to the Japanese side that we consider such provocative activities involving extra-regional states as a potential threat to the security of the Russian Federation,” the statement further said.

It also said that Russia will take “adequate measures” to further strengthen the country’s defense capability.

Earlier this month, Japanese, US and Australian armies wrapped up 10-day military exercises, called Yama Sakura-85.

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