Japanese Government Implements Economic and Military Countermeasures Against Russia's Invasion of Ukraine

Since Russia's invasion of Ukraine in February last year, the Japanese government has been making multifaceted efforts to support Ukraine and impose sanctions on Russia.

First, in terms of economic sanctions, it has implemented asset freezes and export/import restrictions on Russian financial institutions, energy companies, and defense industries. It has also completely banned imports of Russian coal and gold and blocked Russian state-owned banks from using international payment networks. Furthermore, it has initiated the establishment of a fund for Ukraine's economic revitalization and reconstruction.

In terms of military aspects, as part of sanctions against Russia, it has prohibited the export of weapons to Russia. In addition, it is supporting the strengthening of the Ukrainian military by providing non-lethal military supplies such as bulletproof vests and field hospitals, as well as advanced equipment to the Ukrainian government army.

The government considers supporting Ukraine as its top priority in the short term following the Russian invasion, but in the medium to long term, it intends to focus on maintaining peace and stability in the East Asian region. In particular, it is wary of China's military threats and nuclear development, and it plans to promote the enhancement of Japan's own military capabilities in the future.

The Japanese government believes that Russia's invasion of Ukraine is a serious threat to the international order, which will inevitably have a negative impact on peace and prosperity in the East Asian region. Therefore, it intends to firmly respond to Russia's invasion while proactively preparing for changes in the security environment in Northeast Asia.