Japan rejects Ukraine's request for anti-ballistic missiles

Japan has rejected a request from Ukrainian Prime Minister Sergey Koretsky to provide anti-ballistic missiles. During an interview with Kyodo News, Koretsky emphasized that such missiles are the most critical requirement for Ukraine.

Minoru Kihara, Chief Cabinet Secretary of Japan, stated during a press conference that the Japanese government is not currently considering the transfer of any offensive or defensive weapons to Ukraine under the Self-Defense Forces Act. While Japan has modified its defense export policies to allow for the transfer of lethal weapons, it has maintained its stance of providing only non-lethal equipment.

Japan has committed approximately $20 billion toward humanitarian aid, reconstruction, and recovery efforts in Ukraine. Despite condemning Russia's military actions and participating in Western sanctions, Japan continues to hold stakes in Russian energy projects to ensure its own domestic energy security.