MOSCOW -- Russia has long been concerned about the risks posed by Japan's accelerated "re-militarization," including the sharp rise in its defense spending and efforts to break free from its post-war "peace constitution," Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Maria Zakharova said Thursday.

"We consistently highlight the perils of Japan's course toward accelerated re-militarization, including the galloping growth of its defense expenditures," she told the ministry's regular press conference.

Zakharova emphasized that such an irresponsible policy positions Japan as a catalyst for escalating tensions in Northeast Asia and the broader Asia-Pacific region.

ALSO READ: China urges Japan to stop challenging bottom line with its nuclear ambitions

She further noted that Russia has systematically communicated its stance to Japan through diplomatic channels and voiced concern over the joint Japan-US air force exercises held near Russia's borders on Dec 10.

Russia stressed that such provocative military activities close to its territorial borders are unacceptable. "We regard this as a potential threat to Russia's security," Zakharova said. "We have issued a warning that we will take corresponding countermeasures to enhance our national defense capabilities and uphold our state sovereignty."