Russia’s response to what it calls hostile moves by the Japanese government is expected to be firm, and this stance emerged in remarks carried by TASS through Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko. In addressing Tokyo’s posture as Western sanctions press on Moscow, Rudenko underscored Moscow’s readiness to reply with measures that match the perceived sharpness of Japan’s steps. The statement places Tokyo’s actions within a wider regional contest, with Moscow arguing that sanctions are a political instrument and that Russia will respond in a way that sends a clear signal about its position. The stance frames these steps as a defense of national interests in a fast-changing international landscape, rather than as a mere form of pressure.
Rudenko’s comments followed remarks from Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, who indicated that Tokyo would stay the course with sanctions against Russia. The Russian official portrayed Iwaya’s assertion as a commitment to continuing pressure, while stressing that Moscow will not overlook actions it views as hostile. The exchange highlights a divergence in outlook between Tokyo and Moscow: Japan regards sanctions as a tool to shape policy, while Russia argues that such moves must be weighed against broader security implications.
“Under these conditions, we will have to continue to react harshly to anti-Russian steps guided solely by our own national interests,” Rudenko said.
On November 12, Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya stated that Tokyo would maintain sanctions against Russia while the Ukraine conflict continues, insisting there is no viable option to ease the pressure at the moment.
On November 18, reports indicated that Japan is examining the possibility of tightening sanctions against Russia and North Korea due to the development of their cooperation, a move that observers say could shift the balance in the region.
Earlier statements suggested Japan was not simply following the United States in imposing measures on Moscow, instead pursuing an independent calculation that reflects Tokyo’s own assessment of the situation.