Japan Watches Russian Military Bases on Kurils

strained – adj. not friendly and relaxed

contend(s) – v. to argue or state something in a strong and definite way

fleet – n. a group of military ships

episode – n. an event or a short period of time that is important or unusual

pride – n. a feeling that you respect yourself and should be respected by others

stance – n. position

sovereign – adj. possessing unlimited power