Japan Criticizes Russia's Retaliation To Ukraine Sanctions

Japan has criticized Russia's decision to bar entry to some of its citizens in retaliation for Tokyo's sanctions over the Ukraine crisis.

Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said on August 25 that Moscow's decision was "very regrettable" and that it would have a "negative impact" on bilateral relations.

Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Igor Morgulov handed the list of affected persons to Japanese Ambassador to Russia Chikahito Harada on August 22. The names were not made public.

In April, Japan denied visas to 23 Russian nationals, including government officials, as part of sanctions against Russia for its failure to reduce tensions in Ukraine. Those names were also not made public.

Earlier this month, Japan froze assets held by 40 Russians and two groups seen as being involved in Moscow's annexation of Crimea and the instability in eastern Ukraine.

Based on reporting by dpa and ITAR-TASS