Russian MFA: Deployment of missile systems to Kuril Islands was to strengthen national security
The deployment of Bal and Bastion missiles to the Kuril Islands was carried out under the framework of scheduled work for national security, the spokesperson for the Russian Foreign Ministry, Maria Zakharova, said.
“With regard to the placing of missile systems on the Southern Kurils: the Russian Federation is carrying out scheduled activities in the framework of defense construction. The goal is the consistent strengthening of national security,” she answered, in response to a question about how the placement of missiles will reflect on the talks between the foreign ministers of Russia and Japan on December 3.
“Precisely in line with this goal, coastal missile complexes were deployed in the South Kuril Islands, which are an integral part of the Russian territory,” the Russian diplomat stressed.
The day before, Japan responded to the missiles on the Kuril Islands, stating that it attaches great importance to this and promised to take appropriate measures.