Japan imposes new sanctions targeting Russia’s shadow fleet

Japan has announced a new package of economic sanctions against Russia in response to its ongoing aggression in Ukraine. The measures specifically target the so-called ‘shadow fleet’—35 vessels used to transport Russian oil and bypass international restrictions. These ships will now be required to obtain permits for logistics, financial services, capital transactions, and loans.

In addition to targeting maritime activities, Tokyo is freezing the assets of 33 Russian organizations and nine individuals. The sanctions also include export restrictions on products that could bolster Russian industry and prohibit exports to four entities in third-party countries that assist in circumventing trade restrictions.

Tensions between the two nations have escalated following Vladimir Putin’s visit to Etorofu (Iturup) in the disputed Kuril Islands. Japan has expressed that such visits are ‘absolutely unacceptable.’ While implementing these measures, Japan faces a complex balancing act due to its energy dependence on Russia, noting that approximately 10 percent of its liquefied natural gas imports originate from the country.