Press Releases
Sanction Measures following Russia's Recognition of the “Independence” of the “Donetsk People’s Republic” and the “Luhansk People's Republic” and the ratification of treaties with the two “Republics” (Statement by Foreign Minister HAYASHI Yoshimasa)
February 24, 2022
- On February 21, Russia signed a Presidential decree recognizing the "independence" of the "Donetsk People's Republic" and the "Luhansk People's Republic", which are teritorry of Ukraine, as well as the “Treaty on Friendship, Cooperation and Mutual Assistance" granting the Russian Armed Force the right to build and use military bases and others. On February 22, Russia proceeded with a series of measures such as the ratification of the treaties with the two “Republics” and the decision by the Russian Federation council regarding the use of military forces outside of its territory.
- Such actions clearly constitute an infringement of the Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and are in violation of international law. They are totally unacceptable and Japan strongly condems them once again. The Government of Japan strongly urges Russia to return to efforts to resolve the situation through diplomatic process.
- In order to coordinate with the international community to address this issue, Japan will take the following measures:
- (1) Japan will suspend the issuance of visas to Japan for individuals of the "Donetsk People's Republic" and the "Ruhansk People's Republic" and freeze the assets held by these individuals in Japan;
- (2) Japan will prohibit import from and export to the "Donetsk People's Republic" and the "Ruhansk People's Republic";
- (3) Japan will prohibit the issuances and transactions of new Russian sovereign debt in the primary and secondary market. In addition, for certain designated Russian banks already prohibited from issuing or offering securities in Japan, Japan will impose sanctions on securities having a shorter fixed maturity.
- The relevant ministries will swiftly proceed with the procedures such as the adoption of a cabinet understanding which are necessary to take these measures.
- In case the situation deteriorates, Japan will move swiftly to take further measures in coordination with the international community, including the G7.
- Japan will continue to make efforts to improve the situation in cooperation with the international community, standing alongside Ukraine and its people.