The “Kremlin” presiding in Russia considered that “Japan has taken an extremely hostile position towards us, which does not contribute to the development of economic relations, including in the energy sector.” In a separate context, she noted that “Russian grain is in great demand, but sanctions prevent its access to foreign markets.”

The Japanese government has imposed a package of sanctions against Russia, such as freezing the assets of individuals and entities, banning exports of enterprises related to the defense industry, excluding Russia from the trade system of the most preferred country, and imposing a ban on the export of a large number of goods to Russia due to its war against Ukraine. In response to these sanctions, the Russian Foreign Ministry said on March 21 that “Moscow has decided to refuse to conclude a peace treaty with Japan, stop visa-free entry of Japanese citizens to the South Kuriles and withdraw from the dialogue with Japan in cohabitation, in response to Tokyo’s steps.” The latter is unfriendly towards Russia.