Editor’s Note
This article details Japan’s latest sanctions against Russia, approved on March 1, 2024. The measures expand asset freezes and export bans while strengthening an import ban on Russian diamonds, aimed at curtailing funding for the war in Ukraine.
The Japanese government approved additional sanctions against Russia on March 1, 2024, in response to its ongoing invasion of Ukraine. The measures include expanding the list of Russian organizations and individuals subject to asset freezes and export bans, as well as strengthening the import ban on Russian diamonds, which are considered a source of funding for the invasion.
This action follows the commitment made by G7 leaders during a video conference on February 24, the second anniversary of the invasion, to strengthen sanctions against Russia. The list of entities subject to export bans has been expanded to include 29 organizations, such as the assault rifle manufacturer “Kalashnikov Concern.”
Regarding the import ban on Russian diamonds, a key change is that the prohibition will now also cover diamonds processed outside of Russia.
