TAKAICHI REAFFIRMS JAPAN’S SUPPORT FOR UKRAINE, SANCTIONS ON RUSSIA

Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi has reaffirmed her government’s continued support for Ukraine and commitment to maintaining sanctions against Russia. Takaichi made the pledge during her first formal meeting with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy on Tuesday on the sidelines of the 81st United Nations General Assembly in New York.

During the meeting, which lasted about 20 minutes, Takaichi said Japan’s position of standing with Ukraine remained unchanged. She said Tokyo would continue working with the international community to provide assistance to Ukraine while maintaining sanctions against Russia, stressing the need for countries to cooperate in efforts to achieve what she described as a just and lasting peace.

The Japanese leader also expressed support for the Ukrainian people and said Russia’s aggression had undermined the international order. She called for stronger international cooperation to support Ukraine as the conflict continues into its fifth year. The meeting was held at the request of the Ukrainian side, according to a senior Ukrainian official.

Zelenskyy thanked Takaichi for Japan’s assistance to Ukraine, including humanitarian and energy support as well as its sanctions against Russia. The Ukrainian president also briefed the Japanese prime minister on the current situation and discussed areas where both countries could strengthen cooperation. Zelenskyy said Ukraine was interested in Japanese technology and expertise, particularly in areas that could help protect lives and strengthen its infrastructure.

The meeting came as world leaders gathered in New York for the high-level week of the UN General Assembly, with the war in Ukraine remaining an important international security issue. Japan has maintained sanctions against Russia and provided various forms of support to Ukraine since Russia launched its full-scale invasion in 2022. Takaichi’s latest commitment indicates that Tokyo intends to maintain that policy while coordinating its approach with other countries.