Japan will maintain strict export controls in collaboration with other nations, adjusting to the evolving international situation.

Ukrainian long-range strikes have intensified since early 2026, putting sustained pressure on Russia’s oil refining capacity and government revenue.

Financial Times reports at least 194 Ukrainian attacks on Russian oil refineries in 2026, vastly higher than the prior year, affecting Russia’s fuel supply and economy.

The latest guidance indicates such transfers remain within Japan’s export restrictions, signaling ongoing crackdown on evasion methods.

Akazawa affirmed that METI will proactively inform market participants and exchange information with authorities to prevent circumvention of sanctions.

Together with the G7, Japan continues to enforce sanctions and export controls aimed at constraining Russia’s war materials and energy capabilities, with Tokyo coordinating enforcement with international partners.

Japanese Trade Minister Ryosei Akazawa said the export-restriction scope includes direct and indirect routes, with measures to prevent sanctions evasion through awareness, warnings, and information-sharing with authorities.

Japan’s METI confirms the export ban on aviation fuel to Russia extends to indirect supplies through third countries and ship transshipments, as part of a coordinated G7 and international sanctions effort.

Reuters reports Russia’s plan to import a jet fuel cargo originating in Japan via intermediaries, loading about 200,000 barrels in Chiba and routing it through South Korea before reaching Russia.

Russia intends to source Japanese-origin aviation fuel through a network of traders, a move tied to the Ukrainian strikes on oil refining infrastructure.

Ukrainian drone strikes on Russia’s energy infrastructure have intensified, disrupting fuel supplies and contributing to declines in jet fuel exports.