Russia "Serious Concerns Over Japan's Nuclear Plant Contaminated Water Discharge"

[Asia Economy Reporter Sung Kiho] Russia has expressed serious concerns over the Japanese government's decision to discharge contaminated water from the Fukushima nuclear power plant into the ocean.

On the night of the 13th (local time), the Russian Foreign Ministry issued a statement under spokesperson Mariya Zakharova, saying, "We have taken note of the Japanese government's approval of the plan to discharge radioactive contaminated water from the Fukushima Daiichi Nuclear Power Plant into the ocean," and "in making this decision, Japan regrettably did not consider it necessary to consult with neighboring countries, including Russia."

It continued, "The official information from the Japanese side regarding this issue is insufficient," and "in particular, it does not include an assessment of the environmental risks to the Pacific Ocean region that Japan's decision may cause," adding "in this regard, we express serious concerns and expect the Japanese government to demonstrate the necessary level of transparency and explain its actions, which may pose a radiation threat, to interested countries."

The Foreign Ministry stated, "We expect more detailed explanations regarding all aspects related to the plan to discharge radioactive contaminated water into the ocean," and argued, "If necessary, Japan should conduct monitoring of the radiation status in the waters where the discharge will take place."