China-Russia relations are casting a shadow over the Northern Territories issue
POINT OF VIEW/ Nobuo Shimotomai: Russian domestic politics behind Medvedev's island visit Nobuo Shimotomai (The Asahi Shimbun) I believe the greatest factor behind Russian President Dmitry Medvedev's visit to Kunashiri Island, part of the disputed Northern Territories, is Russian domestic politics. The nation remains under the dual leadership system of Medvedev and Prime Minister Vladimir Putin. Given the circumstances, which of the two will run for president in 2012 is unlikely to be decided until the last moment. However, work is under way to reform the election system. By visiting the Northern Territories, Medvedev, who is in charge of government, and the presidential office moved one step forward in the race. Change in China-Russia ties What served as a catalyst is the dismissal by the president of former Moscow Mayor Yury Luzhkov in September after 18 years in office. Luzhkov's removal had a similar impact as the arrest of Mikhail Khodorkovsky, the lead...