Ukraine is looking to expand its defense cooperation with Japan to bolster its security capabilities.
According to Operative Information Center-OMM, citing international media reports, Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed his intention to deepen military ties with Tokyo during discussions regarding regional security and bilateral support.
Zelenskyy welcomed the policy of Japanese Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi regarding the expansion of defense exports, specifically emphasizing the critical importance of air defense systems for Ukraine. He expressed hope that Prime Minister Takaichi would open a "dialogue corridor" in this field to facilitate more robust technical and military assistance. The Ukrainian leader also noted his desire to meet with the Japanese head of government, suggesting the meeting could take place on the sidelines of an international event or during an official visit to Japan.
Under Japan's current constitutional and legal framework, the export of military equipment is strictly regulated. Defense transfers are generally limited to five non-lethal categories: rescue operations, transport, warning, surveillance, and mine clearance. However, recent shifts in Tokyo's security policy have seen a gradual re-evaluation of these restrictions in response to the changing global geopolitical landscape.
To date, Tokyo has provided significant non-lethal support to Kyiv, including approximately 100 units of Self-Defense Forces vehicles such as trucks, as well as body armor, helmets, winter clothing, food rations, tents, hygiene products, and power generators. This cooperation marks a significant departure from Japan's traditional pacifist stance, reflecting a growing commitment to international security and the sovereignty of partner nations like Ukraine.
