Japan Rejects Ukraine’s Arms Supply Request_ Russian Reports

Ukraine called on Japan to supply weapons, including missiles but the request was denied over violation of law, Russian media outlets reported on Wednesday.

Ukraine sent a letter to Japanese Defense Minister Nobuo Kishi at the end of February requesting weapons, including ammunition, anti-tank missiles and surface-to-air missiles, the Japanese agency “Kyodo” revealed, citing government sources.

On its part, the Japanese government considered sending arms and ammunition to Ukraine a violation of the "Three Principles" on arms supply abroad. Therefore, the request was denied.

However, Tokyo decided to send body armor, helmets, warm clothing, photographic equipment, tents, food and generators to Kiev.

In 2014, the Japanese government officially abandoned its policy of banning the export of arms and military technology, which had been in place for nearly half a century.

Nevertheless, strict rules were imposed in this regard as Japan was not allowed to export weapons to countries engaged in a military conflict or subject to UN Security Council sanctions.

Sending weapons abroad is only permitted if they “contribute to the cause of peace and contribute to the security of Japan”.