No sign of progress in talks over detention of Japanese journalist in Russia

Foreign Minister Toshimitsu Motegi speaks during a news conference at the Foreign Ministry on Friday. | JIJI

JIJI

Oct 26, 2026

Two weeks have passed since Russian authorities detained a Japanese journalist working for the Hokkaido Shimbun, with his detention likely to continue for some time.

The Japanese government has stepped up its efforts to secure his immediate release, but Moscow has shown no sign of softening its stance. Even a consular visit, generally provided under bilateral agreements, has yet to take place.

Tokyo plans to continue pressing Moscow for a resolution.

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