The Government of Japan has officially announced a sweeping new package of sanctions against the Russian Federation. This step is taken as part of international efforts to exert pressure on Moscow over its ongoing military aggression against Ukraine and the global community's commitment to achieving lasting peace. Tokyo continues to systematically scale up its restrictive measures, synchronizing its sanctions policy with other G7 nations.
Core of the New Japanese Restrictions and Asset Freezes
According to an official statement by the Ministry of Foreign Affairs of Japan, the new government decision provides for a strict freeze on the assets of 33 Russian companies and nine individuals. A special authorization regime is now introduced for all sanctioned entities and individuals. It applies to key payments and capital operations, including the conclusion of bank deposit, trust, and loan agreements, significantly restricting their international financial activity.
Targeting the Shadow Fleet and Foreign Intermediaries
A separate item on the sanctions list targets the logistical infrastructure used to bypass restrictions. Tokyo banned exports to four foreign companies from Turkey and the United Arab Emirates that are not registered in Russia or Belarus but are involved in supply chains. In addition, 35 vessels of the so-called Russian "shadow fleet" fell under severe restrictions. The provision of any services and financial transactions related to the purchase, sale, lease, or chartering of these ships is now permitted exclusively under special authorization.
Effective Dates and International Context
The new restrictions on fulfilling obligations and providing services apply officially starting today, October 2, 2026. At the same time, the Japanese government introduced a temporary exemption: sanctions do not apply to obligations under contracts concluded before this date, provided that their fulfillment or service provision is completed by November 1 of this year. This measure comes against the backdrop of similar steps by the UK, which recently announced a new sanctions package against Russia.
