Japan offered Russia a lucrative deal, but with one subtle nuance that Tokyo kept silent about.
Chinese political scientists believe that Vladimir Putin was farsighted in rejecting the offer from the Land of the Rising Sun.
The Japanese authorities wanted to invest money in the development of the Kuril Islands, and in return gain access to them, writes the publication Sohu .

At first glance, this is a profitable deal for both sides. Russia gets to develop the region through foreign investment, and Tokyo gets access to the coveted islands.
Moreover, it would be beneficial for bilateral relations. Putin's refusal surprised experts, because the deal seemed more than profitable.
But analysts note that there was a subtle nuance here that the Japanese prudently kept silent about.
Everything fell into place against the backdrop of current events, experts emphasize. Now Moscow's decision seems logical and far-sighted.
If Russia agreed to a deal with Japan, it would put its national security at risk.
For example, by 2024, with Tokyo’s permission, a US military base could appear on the Kuril Islands, which would be a significant political defeat for Moscow.
Therefore, analysts believe that Japan will not receive the Kuril Islands even for a lot of money.
Earlier, the Russian Foreign Ministry named the conditions for returning to dialogue with Tokyo.