What is happening with Ukraine sooner or later could happen with East Asia, so neutrality in Russia's war against Ukraine is impossible, Japanese Ambassador to Ukraine Kuninori Matsuda said.

"From the first days of this aggression, our Prime Minister set the tone for what Japanese policy would look like in this section. What is happening now with Ukraine, sooner or later, could happen to East Asia. Therefore, of course, neutrality is impossible for Japan, nor for any other country, wherever it is located. It is also impossible to continue the policy of business as usual, further dealing with Russia," Matsuda said at the third Ukrainian-Japanese forum "Responsible partnership. Ukraine and Japan in the context of Russia's war" on Tuesday.

Matsuda said that thanks to his leadership, Japan can pursue a clear sanctions policy against Russia and announced a new package of sanctions.

"We have a sanctions package against Russia. And we are also now announcing a new package of sanctions," he said.

He said the future of Ukraine should be closely linked with Europe and Euro-Atlantic integration.

The ambassador also said Japan and Ukraine have many common challenges and common interests.