The Russian Foreign Ministry on Monday disclosed that the country has permanently banned nine Japanese citizens from entering Russia.
The ministry stated that the decision was made in response to Japan’s sanctions against Russia related to the Russia-Ukraine conflict.
According to the ministry, the list includes Japanese Foreign Minister Takeshi Iwai, the president and representative director of carmaker Isuzu, Shinsuke Minami, and Shohei Hara, senior vice president of the Japan International Cooperation Agency.
It could be recalled that in late July 2024, Russia took similar measures against another 13 Japanese nationals, including the chairman of another carmaker, Toyota Motor.
However, Tokyo protested against that decision.
DAILY POST reports that entry bans for foreigners are a common measure employed by Moscow in retaliation for sanctions or other opposition to Russia’s military campaign in Ukraine.
Similar lists exist for several countries, including the U.S. and Canada, and include hundreds of people.