On Thursday (December 25, 2025), Russia's Foreign Ministry fired a shot across Tokyo's bow, condemning reports that Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi may visit Yasukuni Shrine. Spokesperson Maria Zakharova accused Tokyo of whitewashing its history of militarist aggression and war crimes. 😲
Zakharova urged Japan to face its wartime past head-on, calling for genuine atonement to the victims instead of symbolic gestures.
Yasukuni Shrine, located in central Tokyo, honors Japan's war dead – including convicted Class-A war criminals – which has long made it a flashpoint in regional politics. Visits by senior officials tend to spark protests in the Chinese mainland, the Republic of Korea, and among communities that still feel the impact of Japan's wartime actions.
This clash over history and memory isn't just old news – it shapes today's diplomatic landscape. Will PM Takaichi go ahead with her visit? And how will neighboring countries respond? 🌏
We'll keep an eye on this story as it develops. 👀
Reference(s):
cgtn.com
