The Japanese government on Friday decided to expand sanctions against Russia for its invasion of Ukraine, newly imposing an asset freeze on 51 organizations and 14 individuals related to Russia.

Also decided was a ban on exports to 11 organizations in some countries including Russia, China and Turkey. Tokyo aims to strengthen its measures against moves to circumvent sanctions via third countries.

The expanded Japanese sanctions “will contribute to international efforts to resolve issues linked to Ukraine,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshimasa Hayashi told a press conference.

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Meanwhile, Kuninori Matsuda, Japan’s Ambassador to Ukraine in 2021–2024, said Kyiv should step up diplomacy with Tokyo to secure security guarantees.

The diplomat noted that Tokyo can play a role in providing security guarantees for Ukraine even without a direct military presence.

“When people talk about security guarantees for Ukraine, there are actually three aspects: political, military, and economic… I consider it quite likely that Japan can contribute to the third aspect - strengthening Ukraine’s economy, which in turn will enhance its Armed Forces and defense industry,” Matsuda said.

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