Russia has firmly opposed recent discussions in Japan regarding the potential acquisition of nuclear weapons, Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko stated on December 20. The remarks come amid heightened scrutiny of Japan’s adherence to its long-standing non-nuclear principles under Article 9 of its constitution.
Rudenko, in an interview with TASS, emphasized Moscow’s “unequivocally negative” stance toward proposals to revise Japan’s pacifist policies. “The militarization of Japan will only worsen the situation in Northeast Asia,” he warned, adding that such moves could trigger “corresponding countermeasures” from neighboring states.
His comments follow a controversial statement earlier this week by an official in Japan’s prime minister’s office advocating for nuclear armament—a direct challenge to the country’s post-World War II commitments. While the Japanese government has not formally endorsed this position, the debate has drawn sharp reactions across the region.
Analysts suggest the discussions reflect broader anxieties over security dynamics in Northeast Asia, particularly amid ongoing tensions involving the Democratic People’s Republic of Korea (DPRK) and strategic competition between major powers. China recently urged Japan to “respect international law” regarding nuclear non-proliferation, as reported by CGTN on December 19.
Regional stability remains a critical concern as stakeholders weigh the implications of Japan’s evolving defense posture.
