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The Article discusses the dispute Japan and Russia over the Kuril Islands from a historical perspective. It covers the roots of the problem; the Japanese position; the Russian position; the historical evolution of the negotiations which took place between the two sides, and the recent development of the dispute since Gorbachev assumed power in March 1985, and the obstacles which prevent the two sides from solving it.

The Article reaches a conclusion that even the Japanese continue to maintain a strong claim to the Kurils based on its historical continuity with Japan; the 1875 treaty with Russia; continuing domestic support for the islands as Japanese; and economic and strategic considerations The Russian are hesitant to solve the problem Eden partially and connecting it strongly with economic considerations.