Russia Warns of Retaliation If U.S. Missiles are Deployed in Japan

In a recent televised address, President Vladimir Putin touched upon Russia's increasing concerns about military developments in the Asia-Pacific region, particularly regarding potential U.S. missile deployments in Japan. Following reports from Japan's Kyodo news agency, which indicated that the U.S. and Japan are working on a joint military plan in response to a potential emergency in Taiwan, Russian officials expressed their apprehensions about enhanced military cooperation between Tokyo and Washington.

Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova asserted that the placement of American medium-range missiles in Japan would escalate threats to Russian security. She emphasized that such an occurrence would compel Russia to take necessary defensive measures, including referring to their updated nuclear doctrine to underscore the seriousness of their response options.

In addition, Deputy Foreign Minister Sergei Ryabkov indicated that Russia might consider deploying its own short- and intermediate-range missiles in Asia should the United States follow through with its missile installations. Zakharova did not specify potential locations for such deployments but highlighted that a significant portion of Russia’s landmass is in Asia, making any deployments east of the Ural Mountains strategically viable.

The Russian government has underscored its resolve to respond to any American military initiatives in the region with equal measure. Following the recent successful launch of the new hypersonic missile, the Oreshnik, at a target in Ukraine, Zakharova affirmed that Russia's military capabilities should not be underestimated and that Moscow is prepared to react strongly if necessary.