Japan's Prime Minister says he will lead international efforts to support Ukraine while his country serves as the rotating chair of the Group of Seven.
Kishida Fumio says he plans to discuss new sanctions against Russia and demand an end to military support for the country.

Kishida said "We must not tolerate this attempt to change the status quo by force. We need to support Ukraine and firmly implement sanctions against Russia in order to restore a world order based on the rule of law, rooted in the United Nations Charter and other international laws."

Kishida said what's happening in Ukraine could also happen in East Asia. He said he will call on other Asian countries to help maintain peace and order.
He also expressed concern about a statement from the Russian President this week.
Vladimir Putin said Moscow is suspending the New START nuclear arms control treaty it had signed with the United States.

Kishida also said "Japan is the only country that has suffered a nuclear attack in war. No nuclear weapon has been used for the past 77 years. Russia's threat to use nuclear arms should not endanger that streak."

Kishida noted that Japan is unable to supply weapons to Ukraine because government policies restrict the transfer of defense equipment.

He says Japan will continue to focus on humanitarian aid and help with reconstruction, including equipment to address power shortages and landmine removals.