Russia Bans Entry for 13 Japanese Executives

Russia has banned 13 Japanese business leaders, including Toyota Chairman Akio Toyoda and Rakuten CEO Hiroshi Mikitani, in retaliation for Japan's sanctions related to the invasion of Ukraine. The Japanese government has lodged a formal protest against this entry ban, which they deem unacceptable as it hinders legitimate business activities. The Russian Foreign Ministry justified the ban as a response to Japan's ongoing sanctions but did not disclose the criteria for selecting those banned. Japan has been closely collaborating with G7 nations to impose sanctions against Russia and has provided support to Ukraine, leading to increased tensions between Tokyo and Moscow. Notably, this ban follows other Russian reprisals, including entry bans on Japanese lawmakers and the suspension of peace treaty talks. Japanese officials emphasize that these sanctions are a direct reaction to Russia's violations of international law regarding Ukraine.