Russia Bans Japanese Foreign Ministers From Isuzu From Entering Moskoow

Russia/UNSPLASH ILLUSTRATION/Ludmila Kuznetsova

Russia has permanently banned nine Japanese nationals from entering its country, according to a list published by the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs (Kemlu).

The Russian Foreign Ministry said the decision was taken in response to Japanese sanctions against Russia regarding the Russia-Ukraine conflict.

Reported by Reuters on Monday, March 3, the list includes Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, president and director of car manufacturer representatives Isuzu, Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency (JICA).

By the end of July 2024 Russia took similar action against 13 other Japanese nationals, including the head of another car manufacturer, Toyota Motor. Tokyo has protested the decision.

The entry ban for foreigners is a general action Moscow has taken in retaliation for sanctions or other rejections against Russia's military campaign in Ukraine.

Similar lists are also available in several countries, including the US and Canada and include hundreds of people.