STRATEGIC ASSESSMENT. Russian officials joined leaders from around the world in expressing shock over the assassination of former Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe on Friday.
Abe died at age 67 after being shot at a campaign event in the south-central city of Nara outside Osaka A suspect identified by local media as a former member of Japan’s navy has been taken into custody.
Russian-Japanese relations, which have been gridlocked over failed efforts to hammer out a post-World War II peace treaty due to a dispute over Moscow-held Pacific islands, have been further strained by Russia’s invasion of neighboring Ukraine.
Tokyo has joined Western sanctions against Russia following Feb. 24, while Moscow barred entry to dozens of Japanese politicians and journalists in retaliation.
Here is how Russian lawmakers, diplomats and officials reacted to Abe’s assassination:
“The hand of a criminal cut short the life of an outstanding statesman who headed the Japanese government for a long time and did a lot to develop good neighborly relations between our countries,” Putin wrote in a telegram of condolence addressed to Abe’s family. “We maintained regular contacts with Shinzo, in which his excellent personal and professional qualities were fully demonstrated. The bright memory of this wonderful man will forever remain in the hearts of all who knew him.” “I wish you and your family strength and courage in the face of this heavy, irreparable loss.” (Russia’s president, Putin).
“We are deeply saddened by the news from Japan and condemn the assassination in the strongest terms.”“Abe was a patriot who defended Japan’s interests at the negotiating table, due to which he had good relations with Putin.” (Kremlin spokesman, Dmitry Peskov).
“We’re convinced that those who planned and committed this monstrous crime will incur due responsibility for this act of terrorism, for which there is no justification and no excuse.” (Foreign Ministry spokeswoman, Maria Zakharova).
