18 Jan 2019 | 10:01 AM UTC
Russia: Authorized protest planned in Moscow January 20
Authorized rally to be held in Suvorovskaya Square in Moscow at 13:00 (local time) on January 20 to protest transfer of South Kuril Islands to Japan
Event
An authorized protest over the possible cessation of the South Kuril islands to Japan is scheduled in Moscow's Suvorovskaya Square at 13:00 (local time) on Sunday, January 20. The demonstration is organized by the Left Front opposition coalition ahead of Japanese Prime Minister Shinzo Abe's visit on Tuesday, January 22. Around 1000 people are estimated to attend the event, which is expected to remain peaceful. Localized transportation disruptions are possible along with a heightened security presence.
Context
Both Russia and Japan claim sovereignty over the South Kuril Islands (referred to as the Northern Territories in Japan), which has prevented a formal end to World War II hostilities between the two nations. Discussions have escalated in recent years, with Shinzo Abe making several trips to Russia to discuss the issue. Currently, Russia maintains control over the islands.
Advice
Individuals in Moscow are advised to monitor the situation, anticipate a heightened security presence and transportation disruptions in the vicinity of the protest, and avoid all public demonstrations as a precaution.
