DARK SECRETS: 3 | Rare Historical Photos

Japan secretly executes arsonist for deadly Osaka gaming venue fire

Japan and the US are the only two countries in the G7 that use the death penalty

The Independent UK · Aug 21

What Sanae Takaichi’s popularity among women says about gender equality in Japan

Politicians don’t often find themselves on packages of cookies. Nor do their bags tend to go viral, sparking a fashion craze.

The Conversation · Aug 21

Russia summons Japanese envoy following Putin's visit to disputed islands

Russia’s Foreign Ministry has summoned the Japanese ambassador to protest Tokyo’s criticism of President Vladimir Putin’s trip to Kuril Islands, the Moscow-controlled Pacific archipelago that is claimed by both countries

The Independent UK · Aug 18

'Grubby': Senate debates PM's melon-gate comments

Prime Minister Anthony Albanese's comments on a podcast have continued to dominate parliamentary debate for a second week.

AAP · Aug 17

Why Putin is testing Japan’s limits with visit to contested Pacific islands

The Russian leader’s first visit to the disputed Kuril islands has exposed how far ties between Moscow and Tokyo have deteriorated, and why Japan has grown increasingly assertive in expanding its military capabilities. Namita Singh writes

The Independent UK · Aug 16

Japan’s defence minister heads to Australia to meet Marles in wake of melon-gate controversy

Discussions to focus on Australia’s acquisition of Mogami-class frigate as Japan plays down Albanese’s podcast comments

The Guardian - AU · Aug 16

Japan PM stays away from shrine to WWII dead but defence minister’s visit angers neighbours

China urges Tokyo to do ‘serious soul-searching’ after defence minister visits shrine seen as symbol of Japanese militarism

The Independent UK · Aug 15

US backs Japanese sovereignty over disputed islands after Putin visit

The US ambassador said Washington was "unwavering" in recognising Japanese sovereignty, after Putin's visit to the four islands occupied by the Soviet Union in 1945 prompted Japan to summon Moscow's ambassador and consider tightening sanctions against Russia.

Euronews · Aug 14

The melons rolled quite gently out of the gate – then suddenly became an avalanche for Albanese

Most of the media initially ignored the prime minister’s innuendo as they went to town on his crass Kylie comment. Plus: Victoria drowning in AI

The Guardian - AU · Aug 14

Albanese doesn't believe in admitting he's stuffed up, and it costs him

The PM places pride over pragmatism.

Newcastle Herald · Aug 14