- Russia permanently bans nine Japanese citizens, including Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya.
- The ban follows Japan’s sanctions over the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
- The list includes officials from Isuzu Motors and JICA.
- A similar move in July 2024 saw 13 Japanese nationals banned.
- Japan recently imposed new sanctions targeting Russian individuals and entities.
Russia has permanently banned nine Japanese citizens, including Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, from entering the country. The Russian Foreign Ministry announced the decision on March 3, 2025, stating that the move was a direct response to Japan’s ongoing sanctions against Russia over the Ukraine conflict.
The ministry’s list includes prominent figures such as Shinsuke Minami, president and representative director of Isuzu Motors, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA). Japanese Ambassador to Ukraine Masashi Nakagome and former Ambassador Kuninori Matsuda are also among those barred.
Japan Tightens Sanctions on Russia
Since 2022, Japan has repeatedly sanctioned Russia, targeting officials, banks, and industries over the Ukraine conflict. In January 2025, Japan took another step, freezing the assets of 11 individuals and 29 entities. On top of that, three Russian banks and one Georgian bank faced new transaction restrictions. As a result, tensions between Tokyo and Moscow grew even worse.
In addition to asset freezes, Japan also banned exports of 335 items. This list included special vehicle parts, small motorcycles, audio equipment, and machine tools. By doing so, Japan aimed to weaken Russia’s industrial sector and cut off access to vital technologies. Clearly, Tokyo remained committed to pressuring Moscow through economic measures.
Meanwhile, the latest entry bans came after Russia’s own retaliatory move in July 2024. Back then, Moscow blocked 13 Japanese nationals, including top executives from Toyota and other major figures. Unsurprisingly, Tokyo responded with strong protests, calling the decision politically motivated. The back-and-forth actions only added to the already strained relationship.
Russia has often used entry bans as a response to foreign sanctions or criticism of its military actions. Because of this, individuals from the United States, Canada, and several European countries have faced similar restrictions. As tensions continue to escalate, more people could find themselves caught in this growing diplomatic standoff.
Russia’s Justification and Warnings
Russia’s Foreign Ministry defended its decision, stating that Japan had been following an “anti-Russian course” under Western pressure. Moscow warned that further measures could be taken if Tokyo continued its restrictive policies. The ministry emphasized that Japan’s involvement in sanctioning Russian entities and individuals directly impacted bilateral relations.
Russia has previously accused Japan of siding with NATO and the United States in economic warfare. It has also criticized Japan’s support for Ukraine, including humanitarian aid and financial assistance to Kyiv’s government. These factors have contributed to the worsening ties between the two countries.
Impact on Japan-Russia Relations
Japan and Russia have had a complicated history, filled with disputes over the Kuril Islands and unresolved peace treaty talks since World War II. Now, the latest bans add even more strain to their already tense relationship. As a result, diplomatic ties continue to weaken, making meaningful dialogue between the two nations less likely.
Meanwhile, experts believe Japan’s sanctions are part of a larger global effort to pressure Russia over Ukraine. However, Russia refuses to back down. Instead, Moscow keeps responding with countermeasures, which only makes the situation more unpredictable. Because of this ongoing cycle, tensions between the two countries show no signs of easing.
Furthermore, the banning of nine Japanese officials, including Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwaya, marks another escalation. Since both sides keep retaliating, their relationship remains uncertain. As Japan tightens its sanctions and Russia imposes new restrictions, the long-term effects on diplomacy and trade will be something to watch closely.