Russia builds reconnaissance bases in Kuril Islands Warning to Japan

Russia has begun building a network of reconnaissance bases on the Kuril Islands to increase its military capabilities. Some experts see the move as a link to Ukraine, calling it “almost an open warning” to Japan over its support for Kyiv, MK.ru reported citing the South China Morning Post.

“Moscow is trying to show Japan that supporting Ukraine will have consequences that will not be in Tokyo's interest,” James Brown, a professor of international relations at Temple University in Tokyo, pointed out.

Other experts also say the Kurils are important even without considering relations with Japan.

“These bases will become the eyes and ears pointed to the north of Japan, allowing Russia to monitor the actions of the Japanese, analyze the radar signals of their systems as well as the actions of their American allies,” commented Garren Mulloy, professor of international relations at Daito Bunka University. He also added that building the bases should not cause serious concerns for Japan because they are defensive measures.