The Japanese government plans to continue imposing sanctions on Russia and supporting Ukraine, as the Russian invasion appears likely to drag on for a long time.

Wednesday marks a half year since the start of Russia's invasion of Ukraine.

The government held a meeting of relevant Cabinet ministers on Tuesday to share the latest information on battlefield situations in Ukraine, as well as diplomatic efforts by the countries concerned.

Japan has condemned Russia, saying that unilateral attempts to change the status quo by force are unacceptable.

Tokyo has imposed sanctions on Russia and its ally Belarus, by freezing assets of government officials, and restricting exports and imports, in coordination with the Group of Seven nations.

Japan has provided economic aid to Ukraine, and helped restore its destroyed infrastructure. The country has also accepted more than 1,700 Ukrainian evacuees and helps support their lives in Japan.