Putin concerned U.S. could deploy military on disputed islets

Russian President Vladimir Putin on Thursday expressed concern that the disputed islands controlled by Moscow but claimed by Tokyo could be armed by the U.S. military if they are returned to Japan.Putin also said in an interview with Kyodo News and other media outlets that Russia's military buildup on the isles off Japan's northernmost main island of Hokkaido is aimed at countering U.S. initiatives such as missile defense.While emphasizing that demilitarization on the islands is possible, Putin said it should be considered in the context of the alleviation of tension in the region across th…READ FULL ARTICLE