The Influence of the United States on the Conclusion of a Peace Treaty and the Resolution of the Territorial Dispute between Japan and Russia in the 21st Century

This study examines the impact of the United States on the resolution of the territorial conflict between Russia and Japan regarding the Southern Kuril Islands during the 21st century. The research seeks to evaluate the extent to which the United States influences the negotiation process between Russia and Japan in relation to the finalization of a peace treaty and the resolution of the territorial dispute. The research employs a blend of historical, comparative, and other methodologies, encompassing the examination of international legal documents, memoirs, and statistical materials. The first chapter examines the theoretical elements of territorial disputes, encompassing the notion of a «territorial dispute», the factors contributing to its occurrence, and the various methods of categorization. An analysis of the historical origins of the Russian-Japanese territorial dispute is also conducted. The second chapter analyzes the pivotal factors that impact the settlement process, such as the stance of the United States, Japanese historiography, and legal considerations. Various potential resolutions for the Southern Kurils dispute are being examined. The study suggests a significant degree of US influence in shaping the resolution of the Southern Kuril Islands dispute between Russia and Japan in the 21st century. Keywords: Russia-Japan relations, Territorial dispute, Southern Kuril Islands, US influence, Historical analysis, Territorial sovereignty