Japan Strongly Opposes Russia’s Entry Ban on 30 Nationals Amid Diplomatic Strain

Tokyo, Japan — The Japanese government has vehemently condemned Russia's decision to extend an entry ban affecting 30 additional Japanese nationals, labeling it “entirely unacceptable.” This announcement, made on November 11, follows sanctions imposed by Tokyo in response to Moscow’s ongoing military actions in Ukraine, which are now nearing the four-year mark.

Included in the list of those barred are Toshihiro Kitamura, the spokesperson for Japan’s Ministry of Foreign Affairs, along with various journalists, academics, and government officials. The Russian Foreign Ministry has outlined these individuals as part of an “indefinite prohibition list.”

The reaction from Japan was immediate, with Chief Cabinet Secretary Minoru Kihara discussing the implications at a press conference on Tuesday. He reiterated that fostering people-to-people connections is crucial for the bilateral relationship.

“Japan strongly protests this regrettable action by Russia. Such a move is intolerable,” Kihara stated, adding that “Moscow must not redirect blame for its invasion of Ukraine onto others.”

In September 2025, Japan had already enacted further sanctions against Russian entities, paralleling actions taken by its Western partners. These sanctions encompassed limits on financial transactions and reduced import caps on Russian seaborne crude oil.

In retaliation, Russia has previously instituted multiple entry bans and countersanctions against Japanese officials and citizens in light of Tokyo’s decisions.

Despite the escalating diplomatic tensions, Japan still imports energy from Sakhalin, a Russian island crucial for its energy needs. This has raised alarms in the United States, which has urged Japan and its allies to limit energy collaboration with Russia to amplify pressure on the Kremlin.

When questioned regarding the potential impact of Britain’s insurance ban on Russian gas shipments on Japan’s energy supplies or the possibility of further sanctions, Kihara did not provide specifics, stating only that Tokyo would respond “appropriately to maintain peace in Ukraine while safeguarding national interests.”

This latest incident underscores the intensifying diplomatic rift between Tokyo and Moscow, as Japan struggles to balance its support for Ukraine with its energy reliance on Russia.