Russia has strongly criticized Japan, accusing it of engaging in “cynical and unscrupulous speculation” after Tokyo made comments regarding the nuclear threat posed by Moscow. Furthermore, Russia has promised to respond to the latest round of sanctions imposed by Japan in response to Russia’s invasion of Ukraine.
Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno announced on Friday, May 26 that Japan would be implementing additional sanctions against Russia. This decision came after the recent Group of Seven (G7) summit hosted by Tokyo, where the member countries agreed to intensify measures against Moscow for its actions in Ukraine.
Matsuno also condemned Russia’s plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus, stating that it would only worsen the situation. He emphasized that Japan would never tolerate Russia’s nuclear threat or its potential use.
In response, Russia’s foreign ministry declared that it was evaluating the impact of Japan’s sanctions on its national security and economy. The ministry also asserted that it would not leave Japan’s “illegitimate actions” unanswered. Additionally, the ministry expressed its disagreement with Matsuno’s portrayal of Russia’s actions as “nuclear blackmail.”
Earlier today, May 27, Russia disregarded criticism from U.S. President Joe Biden concerning its plan to deploy tactical nuclear weapons in Belarus. Russia argued that the United States had deployed similar nuclear weapons in Europe for decades. The Russian foreign ministry called on Japan to demonstrate equivalent concern regarding the U.S. deployments in Europe.
The ongoing dispute between Russia and Japan over nuclear issues continues to strain their relations, with both sides firmly standing their ground and exchanging accusations.
