Japan visits for the first time detained journalist in Russia accused of espionage

Japan's government confirmed that embassy officials visited a journalist detained in Russia on espionage charges, demanding his immediate release. The journalist, from Hokkaido Shimbun, was arrested in Sakhalin and later moved to Moscow. Japan's spokesperson stated they will continue to press Russia for his release. The incident occurs amid heightened diplomatic tensions following President Putin's visit to disputed territories claimed by Japan. Japan had previously summoned the Russian ambassador and sought a consular visit within the legal timeframe established by their treaty.