According to CCTV International News, citing the International News Agency, the Russian Federal Security Service confirmed on October 13 that a Japanese journalist working for the Hokkaido Shimbun had been collecting information about Russia's defense capabilities. The Russian side has arrested him on suspicion of espionage activities.
Russian Foreign Ministry spokeswoman Zakharova commented on this matter on the 13th local time, saying: "It is regrettable that Japan attempts to use journalists with foreign journalist status in Russia to gather information in order to undermine Russian security. This is not an isolated case."
Zaharova said: 'Given that the Japanese authorities have adopted a 'anti-Russian' stance since Russia's special military actions against Ukraine began, bilateral cooperation between Russia and Japan has deteriorated. Moreover, Tokyo is unwilling to listen to Moscow's concerns about Japan's 're-militarization path'. This development affects Russia's legitimate interests in the security sector of the Far East. This will become another factor that could worsen Russia-Japan relations.'
Zaharova commented, "Russia once again urges the Japanese government to reconsider its actions and stop hostile measures against Russia."
According to CCTV International News, a court in Moscow has imposed detention measures on this Japanese journalist, with the detention period lasting until December 12 of this year.
Japanese embassy in Russia confirms reports and is confirming details further. "Hokkaido News" also made a similar statement.
