Zelenskyy proposes historic defence cooperation with Japan PHOTO

Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy expressed hope for closer cooperation with Japan on defence matters, welcoming Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi’s efforts to relax the country’s rules on lethal arms exports.

In an exclusive interview with Kyodo News in Kyiv, Zelenskyy said air defence is "crucial" for Ukraine as it continues to repel Russia's full-scale invasion launched in February 2022. He added that it would be "very helpful" if Takaichi opens a "corridor for the dialogue" on the issue.

On the prospect of meeting the Japanese leader, Zelenskyy said, "Madame prime minister -- she's very welcome...We can think about it as quick as possible." He noted he is ready to meet "in any format," including on the sidelines of major multilateral gatherings or through a visit to Japan.

Zelenskyy highlighted the importance of cooperation with countries that hold licenses to produce air defence systems, naming Japan as "one of these countries." Japan, a close U.S. ally, manufactures Patriot surface-to-air missile interceptors under a U.S. license. Its shipment to the United States, completed by November, was the first case of Japan exporting lethal weapons under rules eased in 2023, aimed at helping Washington replenish stockpiles for military support to Ukraine.

Since scrapping its arms embargo policy in 2014, Japan has allowed weapons exports under certain conditions. Ukraine has received some defensive equipment from Japan, such as bulletproof vests and Japanese Self-Defence Forces trucks, but not lethal weapons.

The Japanese government and the ruling Liberal Democratic Party, led by Takaichi, are reportedly considering further lifting constraints on defence equipment transfers amid heightened security tensions, potentially paving the way for shipments even to a country actively engaged in conflict.

Zelenskyy stressed that air defence systems are "not for offensive" purposes, but to counter Russia's missile and drone attacks. Ukraine can, in turn, share sea drone technology with Japan, with Zelenskyy noting the capability "works," as Russian vessels are unable to operate near its shores.

During the 50-minute interview conducted in English, Zelenskyy firmly rejected the idea of withdrawing troops from the eastern Donbas region to secure a peace deal, saying: "We can't withdraw from our territory. It's our real defending line."

Russia is seeking full control of the Donbas region and has demanded a Ukrainian withdrawal.

Zelenskyy also warned of security risks posed by North Korea, which he said has gained military know-how from its involvement in Russia’s war against Ukraine.

"This is extremely dangerous that they now get the knowledge of modern hybrid war...They know how to defend (against) drones," he said, referencing the deployment of approximately 10,000 North Korean soldiers to Russia. North Korean troops were reportedly involved in combat during a Ukrainian incursion into Russia’s western Kursk region.

By Aghakazim Guliyev