# Russia’s simulated enemy attack around disputed islands angers Japan

https://mins.news/en/item/28035

- The Guardian, 2026-08-21 04:54 UTC
- World
- Original: https://www.theguardian.com/world/2026/aug/21/russia-launch-missiles-kuril-islands-japan

> Russia’s Pacific fleet conducted live-fire missile drills near islands Moscow calls the Kurils and Tokyo calls the Northern Territories, simulating an attack on enemy vessels and striking targets about 300km away. Japan’s foreign minister said strengthening military power there was unacceptable. The exercises are scheduled to continue through 29 August.

## Related coverage

- [Putin’s Kuril Move: A Warning to Japan?](https://mins.news/en/video/28957) — DW News, 2026-08-22
- [Russia’s Pacific Fleet holds drill near Southern Kuril Islands](https://mins.news/en/item/27966) — CGTN, 2026-08-20
- [Moscow rejects Tokyo’s attempts to dispute Russian sovereignty over southern Kurils](https://mins.news/en/item/24952) — TASS, 2026-08-18