Japan's Historical Films Draw Russian Criticism

Russia has criticized Japan over films and television dramas that, according to Moscow, repeatedly distort history. Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova made the comments on October 28 during a regular news briefing.

Zakharova said Russia had observed that Japanese films and TV dramas manipulate historical facts when portraying the southern Kuril Islands, which Japan calls the Northern Territories. The same concern applies to depictions of the Russo-Japanese War and Soviet intelligence personnel.

In response to a question from a Chinese reporter, she warned that Russia would take appropriate measures if Japan continues what she described as this wrongful practice.

The spokesperson stressed that Russia supports an objective interpretation of history. She said this view applies equally to the film and television industry.

Zakharova also expressed concern about Japan's 'remilitarization' policy, raising broader questions about regional security alongside the historical dispute.

The remarks highlight the continuing friction between Moscow and Tokyo over territory, wartime memory, and the representation of the past in popular culture.