Japan Condemns Russia's Entry Ban on Officials Amid Sanctions Standoff

Japan condemned Russia's entry ban on 30 additional Japanese citizens, including a foreign ministry spokesperson. This comes after Japan sanctioned Russia over the Ukraine conflict. Despite tensions, Japan continues importing energy from Russia's Sakhalin. Officials emphasized ongoing diplomatic efforts and national interests.

Japan has sharply criticized Russia's decision to extend entry bans to 30 more Japanese citizens, labeling the move as "absolutely unacceptable." This reaction follows Tokyo's imposition of additional sanctions on Russia for its ongoing conflict in Ukraine.

Among those banned is the Japanese foreign ministry spokesperson Toshihiro Kitamura, as well as journalists and academics. In response, Japan's Chief Cabinet Secretary, Minoru Kihara, emphasized the importance of maintaining people-to-people exchanges and accused Moscow of unfairly shifting the blame for its invasion.

Despite the diplomatic tension, Japan continues its energy imports from Russia's Sakhalin island. The Japanese government remains cautious, balancing its national interests with efforts to achieve peace in Ukraine, while being non-committal on further sanctions.

(With inputs from agencies.)