OSAKA, Feb 11 Japanese society is now experiencing a transformation, which is expressed in the appearance of more balanced judgments about the reasons for the start of the special operation and current events in Ukraine, demonstrating a certain understanding of Russia's position. In government circles, however, no such changes have yet been observed, Russian Consul General in Osaka Alexander Terskikh said in an interview.
“As for the anti-Russian protest movement, there was a very powerful surge from the end of February to April. Moreover, in addition to the ultra-right, representatives of various pacifist public organizations also actively spoke out, who regularly came to the gates of the Consulate General, sent numerous letters, messages, petitions,” noted the diplomat.
However, according to the Consul General of Russia, since the middle of last year this movement has begun to decline, and at the present time, «although demonstrations do occur, they are quite rare and few in number.»
«Apparently, a certain transformation of local public opinion is taking place. People are already acting not so much on emotions, which, of course, also takes place, but they demonstrate a more balanced approach. This is felt both in calls and in messages addressed to us, in which are increasingly broadcasting an understanding of our position and the causes of the conflict in Ukraine,» he added.
In addition, changes are taking place in terms of the presentation of information about Ukrainian events in the Japanese media. As the Consul General of the Russian Federation explained, «if earlier the pro-Western or pro-Ukrainian position was categorically presented as the ultimate truth, now a certain element of doubt is still felt: the news is presented with the ending «probably it's like this.»
» Many people understand that not everything is so simple. This point of view is beginning to gain more and more supporters, especially against the backdrop of confirmed facts about the fake nature of a number of provocative news that flooded the Internet space and which were announced by the most advanced media,» he said.
At the same time, according to Tersky, » such changes are not yet felt in government circles.»
«First of all, in view of the fact that the current Japanese administration has completely integrated into the fairway of its Western partners, led by the United States, and it seems that it is not going to change its course yet. Against this background, it is also not necessary to expect changes in the position of local authorities towards the resumption of cooperation with Russia,» summed up the Consul General of the Russian Federation in Osaka.