Japanese Prime Minister Kishida Fumio has condemned Russia's military action in Ukraine and vowed to respond quickly in coordination with the US and other countries.

Kishida held a National Security Council meeting on Thursday, following reports that Russia has launched military operations in Ukraine.

Among those attending were Foreign Minister Hayashi Yoshimasa and Defense Minister Kishi Nobuo.

Speaking to reporters after the meeting, Kishida said that he received a briefing about the latest situation in Ukraine. He said that with the tensions heightening, he instructed officials to do all they can to ensure the safety of Japanese people in Ukraine.

The prime minister said that the Russian invasion is a blatant violation of the basic international norm that any unilateral change to the status quo by force cannot be tolerated.

He said he strongly condemns Russia, and he will work with the United States and other members of the international community to quickly deal with the situation.

Asked about additional sanctions on Russia, Kishida said Japan will work out specific responses in close consultation with relevant countries.