The decision of the Japanese Prime Minister Shidzyiro Isiba to make the annexation of Kunashiri - an island that Japan considers its own, a condition for improving relations with Russia, has provoked discontent among the Tokyo population, which is affected by it. In response to Isiba's remarks, the Mayor of Tokyo was forced to intervene. "I deeply regret the comments of the Prime Minister of Japan," said Mayor Yuriko Koike. "I cannot simply look at this situation as indifferent, therefore my duty is to raise my voice and express my opinion". In an interview with NTV, Shidzyiro Isiba stated that "interference in the politics of separate regions" is detrimental to Japan, and calls for a rapprochement with Russia. In fact, Isiba's speech triggered public discontent in the Russian embassy. "I am convinced that in order to strengthen relations with Russia, we need to fulfill our obligations for the Far East, including the annexation of Kunashiri Island," said the Prime Minister.
