Introduction

As war rages on Russia’s European front, tensions are also rising in the East with neighbours Japan, as Russian forces conduct military drills on the disputed Northern Territories, claimed by Japan.

Japanese Deputy Cabinet Secretary Koichiro Matsumoto joins Arthur Snell to explain the complicated history between Japan and Russia, what Putin’s invasion means for Asian security, and how the Japanese people have rallied around Ukraine.

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• “Russia’s invasion undermines the foundation of not only Europe, but the entire international order.”
• “Japan has condemned Russia’s invasion since the very beginning.”
• “Like many world neighbours, Russia and Japan have numerous unresolved and difficult issues.”
• “Japan’s path to a ‘Russia-Free’ economy is not an easy one.”

DOOMSDAY WATCH was written and presented by Arthur Snell, and produced by Robin Leeburn with Jacob Archbold. Theme tune and original music by Paul Hartnoll. Group Editor: Andrew Harrison. DOOMSDAY WATCH is a Podmasters production.

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