U.S., Japan Finance Chiefs Vow To Help Ukraine Cope With War-Induced Economic Pressures

U.S. Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen (file photo)

The U.S. Treasury secretary and her Japanese counterpart say the two countries have agreed to cooperate in dealing with challenges brought about by Russia's invasion of Ukraine and the protected war there.

Treasury Secretary Janet Yellen and Finance Minister Shunichi Suzuki said in a joint statement on July 12 after the talks that the two countries pledged support for Ukraine in coping with its economic challenges.

The finance chiefs said they were united in their "strong condemnation of Russia's unprovoked, unjustifiable, and illegal war against Ukraine."

They added that they would continue to increase Russia's cost of its war by implementing economic and financial sanctions.

"Our governments have common viewpoints and interests on many of the most pressing priorities affecting our national interests as well as global stability and prosperity. And when we work together, we are each more effective," Yellen said.

The war in Ukraine has heightened the risk of a global recession by adding to price pressures and exacerbating supply chain disruptions.

During her visit to Japan, Yellen paid her respects to slain former Prime Minister Shinzo Abe, praising his efforts to increase Japan's prosperity and advance the status of women.

Abe was gunned down on July 8 during a campaign speech in the western city of Nara.

Based on reporting by AP and Reuters