Japanese Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi revealed on Monday that Chinese and Russian naval vessels conducted live-fire drills within Japan’s exclusive economic zone (EEZ) over the weekend. The exercises, which took place without Japan’s consent, mark a significant escalation in military activities by the two powers near Japanese waters.
Koizumi stated that the drills underscore the deepening military cooperation between Beijing and Moscow, raising concerns about regional stability. The Japanese government has lodged a diplomatic protest through official channels, calling the actions unacceptable.
This is not the first time Chinese and Russian forces have operated near Japan, but live-fire drills within the EEZ are rare and considered a provocative breach of maritime norms. The incident is expected to dominate discussions at upcoming security dialogues and could prompt Japan to strengthen its defense posture.
Article source: japantoday.com | Image credit: Japan Today
