Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy has called for stronger relations with Japan, saying bilateral cooperation has not yet met Kyiv’s expectations despite Tokyo’s continued political and financial support for Ukraine.
Speaking to Ukrainian ambassadors in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said Ukraine should explore practical ways to deepen cooperation, particularly as it seeks stronger defence and industrial partnerships.
“We would like stronger relations with Japan. That is true,” Zelenskyy told the envoys in Kyiv. “Significant political changes took place there … and there were high expectations. However, the results so far have not been as significant — with all due respect, and we are grateful for Japan’s support — but they have not been as significant as they could have been.”
“We need to address this and propose exactly how and by what means it can be done,” he added.
Key developments:
- Japan has provided more than US$21 billion in total assistance, including US$6 billion this year.
- Ukraine is interested in cooperation with Mitsubishi Heavy Industries on advanced air defence technologies.
- Japan’s revised weapons export rules still restrict transfers to countries involved in active conflicts, including Ukraine.
Kyiv continues to pursue closer security cooperation with international partners as it seeks to strengthen its air defence capabilities.
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