Japanese Policy on Sakhalin in 1850s in the Context of Russian-Japanese relations

This article examines a crucial stage in the evolution of Russian-Japanese relations during the second half of the 19th century, a period marked by active colonial expansion by Western powers in the Pacific Ocean, primarily the policies of the USA and leading European empires seeking to penetrate the region. This dynamic contributed to a more assertive Japanese policy towards adjacent territories, particularly Sakhalin. Japan's growing interest in the island was driven by both strategic considerations and the desire to protect its northern frontiers from foreign encroachment. In response, Russia adapted its foreign policy strategy, opting to intensify its diplomatic efforts in the Far East. This was expressed not only in a strengthened military presence but also in increased bilateral contacts aimed at finding compromises. The study focuses on the delimitation of Russian and Japanese territories, where Sakhalin emerged as a major stumbling block. The Treaty of Shimoda (1855) stipulated that the border would run between the islands of Iturup and Urup, while deliberately leaving Sakhalin under joint possession without clear division. This deliberate ambiguity allowed both parties to avoid binding commitments. The academic value of this work is enhanced by its use of rare Japanese sources and new archival materials from the Russian State Naval Archive (RGAVMF). These documents enable a more detailed and comprehensive reconstruction of the negotiation processes, the hidden motives of the parties involved, and the influence of the international context, revealing how the Sakhalin question became inextricably linked to broader geopolitical rivalries in Northeast Asia.