Moscow expressed worry on Thursday about the US-Japan joint exercises, involving the deployment of the Typhon missile system, seeing it as a threat to Russia’s interests. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova emphasized that such actions could destabilize the Asia-Pacific region and pose a direct risk to Russia’s Far Eastern borders. She highlighted that Russia no longer feels bound by the moratorium on ground-based medium and short-range missiles, indicating potential military responses to counter the perceived threats.
The deployment of Typhon medium-range missile systems to the Japanese Self-Defence Force (JSDF) Kanoya Air Base in Kagoshima Prefecture during exercises from June to September has been reported. Additionally, the High Mobility Artillery Rocket System (HIMARS) multiple launch rocket systems are also set to be part of the exercises. Moscow has urged Japan to mend ties and reject its current anti-Russian stance, emphasizing the importance of preserving the positive bilateral relations established over time.
Japanese Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi’s recent statement, indicating Tokyo’s reluctance to alter its anti-Russian foreign policy despite recognizing the significance of relations with Russia as a neighbor, has drawn attention. Moscow criticized Japan for linking cooperation with Russia to the situation in Ukraine under pressure from Washington, leading to a deterioration in bilateral relations initiated by Japan.
