Japanese Defence Minister Minoru Kihara confirmed that a Russian Il-38 patrol aircraft violated Japan's airspace over Rebun Island three times, marking the first such violation since 2019. He stated the incursion was especially regrettable as Japan has lodged a serious protest with Russia. The situation escalated with Japan deploying fighter jets that fired flares at the Russian warplanes, further straining diplomatic relations amidst heightened tensions due to Russia's actions in Ukraine.
Prime Minister Fumio Kishida emphatically stated that Japan will 'resolutely defend Japan's territory, territorial waters, and airspace.' This reinforces Japan's commitment to national defense and the integrity of its borders in the face of repeated Russian airspace violations. The seriousness of the situation underscores the ongoing confrontations between Japan and Russia, with Kishida reinforcing Japan's position as tensions in the region continue to escalate amid Russia's military activities.
Kihara noted, 'This is the first publicly announced airspace incursion by Russian aircraft since June 2019.' The statement reflects both the unusual nature of this event and the historical backdrop of Japan-Russia relations, which have been tense over territorial disputes. It highlights the significant shift in the geopolitical landscape in East Asia, particularly due to Russia's increased military assertiveness since the Ukraine invasion.
Collection
[
|
...
]