AFP :
Japan unveiled Tuesday details of financial sanctions against 40 individuals and two groups involved in the annexation of Crimea and destabilisation of eastern Ukraine.
The decision freezes assets of those on the list, as Tokyo joins the West in pressing Moscow to exercise its influence over pro-Russian separatists in Ukraine to achieve a peaceful resolution in the crisis.
The Japanese measure targets top pro-Russian figures, such as former Ukrainian President Viktor Yanukovych and acting head of the Republic of Crimea Sergey Aksyonov.
Businesses that wish to import products from Crimea will also have to receive Tokyo’s approval.
“Japan will continue our coordination with G7 nations and the international community to achieve a peaceful and diplomatic resolution of the Ukraine situation,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a regular briefing.
