Japan Conveys Grave Concern Over China, Russia Bombers' Joint Flight
Japan's top government spokesperson says the country has conveyed serious concern to China and Russia over Tuesday's joint flight of their bombers near Japan.
Japan's Defense Ministry confirmed on Tuesday that the bombers conducted the long distance flight over the Sea of Japan, the East China Sea and the Pacific.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Matsuno Hirokazu told reporters on Wednesday that Japan sees the act as demonstrative behavior against the country.
He also said the flight involves added provocation because it was held during a Tokyo summit of the Quad group. The Quad consists of the United States, Japan, Australia and India.
Matsuno added that Japan told Russia in particular that Japan cannot overlook the act, which could heighten tension in East Asia when Russia is causing a very severe situation in Ukraine.
He also said China dared to conduct the military drill with Russia when the international community is struggling to stop the country's invasion of Ukraine. He said the government strongly urged China to play a responsible role for peace and security of the international community.