Japan demands access to journalist detained on suspicion of espionage

Japan has demanded consular access to a journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges, amid worsening bilateral relations. The Japanese government, represented by spokesperson Minoru Kihara, confirmed that Kimitake Nakamura, the Director-General for European Affairs, made a formal request in Moscow for immediate consular access and the journalist's release. The detained journalist, Yuki Imai, is accused of espionage activities in Russia. Japan's Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi denied any espionage activities and emphasized the importance of protecting Japanese citizens. The situation is complicated by ongoing territorial disputes between Japan and Russia.