Press Conferences

Mainichi Shimbun, Odanaka: I have a question about the situation in Ukraine. On June 3, Ukrainian armed forces unveiled that they successfully attacked a surface-to-air missile system inside Russian territory using weapons provided by Western countries. Although there is a trend toward permitting the use of weapons provided by the U.S. and other countries against targets in Russian territory, it is a natural concern that it will lead to the escalation of the situation. Please tell us about the assessment or opinion of the Government of Japan concerning Ukraine’s attack on the territory of Russia, if any.

Ms. KOBAYASHI Maki, Press Secretary: We are aware of some media reports about Ukrainian Deputy Prime Minister Vereshchuk suggesting, on social media on June 3, that Ukraine used weapons provided by Western countries to attack on Russian territory.

The Government considers that it is not appropriate to comment based on speculation about every individual report concerning the situation of the war in Ukraine and moves by relevant countries.

As for the latter part of your question, we understand that U.S. Secretary of State Blinken made a public statement on May 31 that Ukraine has long requested permission to use the weapons provided by the U.S. against Russian armed forces attacking Ukraine from the border of the Russian side, and that President Biden has approved this request. We are also aware of some reports that Germany and other countries are following suit.

That being said, regarding the current situation in Ukraine, the Russian armed forces have recently stepped up their offensive in Kharkiv, the northeastern part of Ukraine. President Zelensky himself has mentioned that the situation is severe.

Japan is closely following the situation.

Kyodo News, Hayashi: I would like to ask about the outcome of India’s Lok Sabha general election. Prime Minister Modi declared victory after the ruling coalition maintained its majority. Could you share with us again the Government’s view. In addition, there are some reports that Modi’s party lost a large number of seats while maintaining its majority. Please also tell us about the Government’s reaction to this, and the view on the impact on relations with Japan, if any.

Press Secretary Kobayashi: Regarding India’s Lok Sabha general election, for which voting was conducted in seven phases from April 19 to June 1, we are aware that vote counting began yesterday, June 4. We are aware, as you said, that the ruling coalition led by Prime Minister Modi has declared victory.

Regarding the impact of the outcome on India’s internal affairs, the Government of Japan will refrain from making comments on matters as it is the internal affairs of another country.

That being said, today, Prime Minister Kishida sent a congratulatory message to Prime Minister Modi of India. In the message, Prime Minister Kishida expressed his wish that Prime Minister Modi would exercise leadership for India’s further development and stated that he would like to closely work with Prime Minister Modi toward realizing a “Free and Open Indo-Pacific.”

We will continue to work to strengthen the Japan-India relationship.