Hakodate, Japan on fire in 1934

The transcript discusses a fire in Japan's largest northern port, which caused significant destruction, taking 2000 lives and leaving 200,000 people homeless. The fire also led to the loss of a fortified city, cutting off communication and plunging the city into darkness. The narrative begins with a mention of Soviet Russia's only eastern seaport, highlighting geopolitical tensions.

What does the text imply about the relationship between Japan and the Manchu empire?

How did the fire affect the city mentioned in the text?