Japan has formally protested to China over recent live-fire military drills conducted near waters it claims as part of its exclusive economic zone (EEZ), prompting a sharp rebuttal from Beijing. The joint exercises, which involved both Chinese and Russian naval vessels, took place early Sunday approximately 180 kilometers (110 miles) southwest of Okinotori Island, a remote territory whose status is disputed by the two countries.

Japan’s government lodged the protest through diplomatic channels, citing concerns that the drills posed navigation risks for vessels operating in the area. “Such activities could pose a danger to the navigation of nearby vessels,” said Minoru Kihara, a senior Japanese government spokesperson. This marks the first time Japan has publicly disclosed the details of China’s live-fire exercises within waters it asserts as part of its EEZ, which extend beyond territorial seas and grant rights over natural resources.

The Chinese government, however, rejected Japan’s claims and criticisms. A spokesperson for China’s foreign ministry described Japan’s concerns as "completely unreasonable," affirming that China’s operations complied with international law and customary practices on the high seas. Beijing disputes Japan’s EEZ designation around Okinotori Island, arguing that the landmass is a reef rather than an island and therefore does not justify an expansive economic zone. The Chinese spokesperson accused Japan of “smearing and hyping up the legitimate actions” of China and Russia.

According to Japanese military sources, the contingent involved in the exercises included a Chinese Renhai-class guided-missile destroyer, a Luyang III-class guided-missile destroyer, a Fuchi-class replenishment ship, and a Russian Steregushiy-class frigate. Prior to the live-fire activity conducted by one of the Chinese destroyers, the approaching vessels were monitored as they entered Japan’s claimed EEZ, and warnings were issued by radio to nearby maritime traffic.

The incident comes amid an ongoing increase in joint military activities by China and Russia near Japanese waters, which Tokyo views as a growing security challenge. In response, Japan has intensified surveillance and bolstered its defense posture across its island arc. The tensions between Tokyo and Beijing have been further strained since remarks made last year by Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding Taiwan, a self-governing island claimed by China.

This episode adds to a series of recent encounters, including a notable December incident when Japan accused Chinese fighter aircraft of locking their radar onto Japanese military planes near Okinawa. Beijing has disputed those claims, illustrating the fragile nature of security and diplomatic relations in the region.