Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Expresses Support To Zelenskyy In Phone Talks
Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has condemned Russia's attempt to annex four Ukrainian regions during telephone talks with Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy.
Kishida spoke with Zelenskyy for about 30 minutes on Friday.
The prime minister denounced the Russian move as undermining Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and a violation of international laws. He said the Russian claim should never be recognized.
Kishida said Japan will consider additional sanctions on Russia in close coordination with the other Group of Seven countries, and will continue to support Ukraine.
Sources say Zelenskyy expressed his deep gratitude.
Kishida told Zelenskyy that Japan, as the host country of next year's G7 summit, is committed to playing a leading role in discussions on how to restore peace in Ukraine and quickly rebuild the country.
After the phone talks, Kishida told reporters that Japan will work with the G7 countries and other partners to stop Russia's invasion of Ukraine as soon as possible. He added that Japan is in solidarity with Ukraine, which is fighting to defend its land and freedom.