Ukraine Asks Japan for Patriot Missiles; Tokyo Declines

Ukraine's newly appointed Prime Minister has publicly urged Japan to supply Patriot missile defense systems, emphasizing their critical importance for protecting Ukrainian citizens and infrastructure, especially during the upcoming heating season. This marks the first international media interview for Prime Minister Serhiy Koretzky, who took office last month.

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I want to ask Japan for ballistic missile interceptors.

The request comes as Ukraine grapples with a severe shortage of air defense missiles. Russia has intensified its ballistic missile attacks in recent months, exacerbating Ukraine's defensive vulnerabilities. Koretzky also expressed Ukraine's need for Japan's expertise in infrastructure and energy for post-war reconstruction, indicating ongoing discussions with Japanese companies.

However, Japan's government has drawn a clear line, stating that it is not currently considering the transfer of weapons to Ukraine. While Japan revised its defense equipment transfer principles in April to allow for exports beyond its previous limitations of 'rescue, transport, patrol, surveillance, and mine clearance,' the transfer of arms, particularly to a country engaged in active conflict, remains subject to strict scrutiny. The government has reiterated that weapons intended for combat and destruction are not being considered for transfer at this time.

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It is most important for protecting the people and power infrastructure and overcoming the heating season.

Providing Patriot missiles would necessitate additional procedures, including the establishment of a defense equipment and technology transfer agreement, and would require a significant political decision from Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi. The current stance indicates that while Ukraine seeks advanced defensive capabilities, Japan's policy on arms export to conflict zones remains a significant hurdle.

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At this point, we are not considering the transfer of weapons to Ukraine.