Japan Calls for Revision of UN World Map After Kuril Islands Depicted as Russian

Japan has formally requested that the United Nations revise its newly adopted true‑scale world map, arguing that the depiction of the Kuril Islands as belonging to Russia misrepresents a long‑standing territorial dispute. The General Assembly approved the map on Friday, a design that enlarges Africa while shrinking North America and Europe. Japan’s appeal follows criticism that the map’s portrayal could influence international perception of the islands’ sovereignty. Washington also voiced disapproval, noting the map’s potential diplomatic ramifications. The United Nations has not yet announced a response, but the request signals a possible review of the map’s content and the need for greater sensitivity to contested borders in official cartographic representations.