Final answer:
Russia did not agree to Japan's attempt to negotiate spheres of influence in Manchuria for several reasons. Japan's surprise naval attack, Russia's underestimation of Japan's power, and the refusal to compromise on maintaining control over Korea were factors that contributed to Russia's lack of agreement.
Step-by-step explanation:
Russia did not agree to Japan's attempt to negotiate spheres of influence in Manchuria for several reasons. Firstly, Japan's surprise naval attack on the Russian fleet in Port Arthur during the Russo-Japanese War in 1904 resulted in Japan's victory and the acknowledgement of its power as an organized and industrialized nation. This defeat weakened Russia's position and made them less willing to negotiate.
Secondly, Russia believed themselves to be the most powerful military in the world and underestimated Japan's capabilities. However, the embarrassing defeat they suffered in the war made them hesitant to negotiate and give up any influence in Manchuria.
Lastly, Russia's refusal to compromise with Japan's offer to retain control over Korea in exchange for free rein on the Liaodong Peninsula created a deadlock in negotiations. Japan's attack on the Russian fleet at Port Arthur further escalated tensions and made Russia unwilling to negotiate further.