Scandal Erupts in Japan Over Minister Kikavada’s Comments on the Kuril Islands

Controversy is brewing in Japan over remarks made by Minister Hitoshi Kikavada regarding the Kuril Islands, which many interpreted as an indirect acknowledgment of Russian ownership. According to Kyodo news agency, Kikavada, during a trip to Hokkaido prefecture, visited Cape Nosappu in Nemuro city, where the Kuril Islands are visible, and stated, ‘Probably the closest place to a foreign country.’ The statement prompted sharp criticism as many saw it as implying that the minister viewed the so-called Northern Territories as ‘foreign land,’ belonging to Russia. Government sources revealed that Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara reprimanded Kikavada on the same day, citing the ‘inappropriateness and ambiguity’ of his comments.