Moscow: Nikolai Patrushev, Secretary of Russia’s Security Council, has issued a stern warning to Japan, urging the country to halt what he described as its increasing militarisation directed at Russia and China. Patrushev, known as a hardline figure within the Kremlin, accused Japan of aligning its naval operations with NATO and suggested that such actions could lead to serious consequences.
Patrushev described Japan’s military expansion as “suicidal” and warned that Russia would not remain passive if these developments continued. His statements come during Russian President Vladimir Putin’s visit to China, where he attended a large-scale military parade in Beijing marking the end of World War II.
The remarks reflect ongoing tensions between Russia and Japan, which have not signed a formal peace treaty since World War II due to disputes over the Kuril Islands, known in Japan as the Northern Territories. Patrushev’s comments signal that Russia perceives Japan’s growing defense capabilities and partnerships with Western military alliances as a direct threat.
The Kremlin official’s warning also highlights the strengthened strategic alignment between Russia and China. Chinese President Xi Jinping has emphasized the partnership with Russia as a stabilizing force in international affairs, and the timing of Patrushev’s statement underscores this coordinated messaging.
The Asia-Pacific region has witnessed rising security concerns as Japan increasingly participates in joint exercises with Western allies. Russia and China have consistently criticized these moves, including objections to the potential deployment of U.S. intermediate-range missiles on Japanese soil.
Patrushev’s statements may influence Japan’s future defense posture and could escalate regional tensions. Observers note that Japan will need to balance its security commitments with diplomatic efforts to maintain stability in the region. The growing coordination between Russia and China signals a consolidated defense stance that may impact strategic calculations across the Asia-Pacific.