Putin's Iturup visit was a strategic blunder, not a clever manoeuvre

Commentators argue that Putin's visit to the disputed island of Iturup was driven by political goals: stoking patriotic support at home and punishing Japan for its policies. However, analysts assess the move as a strategic blunder that has caused more harm than benefit for Moscow. The visit has strained relations with Tokyo and triggered diplomatic turbulence with no tangible gains.