Foreign Secretary of the United Kingdom, David Lammy, has called on Japan to assist Ukraine by intensifying economic pressure on Russian President Vladimir Putin. Lammy made the appeal during a televised statement alongside his Japanese counterpart, Takeshi Iwaya, in Tokyo on Friday.
Lammy emphasized the importance of international cooperation in maintaining a stable global order and rules-based trade. “Our shared interests in a stable international system and rules-based trade are absolutely clear and fundamental,” he said. “Europe is stepping up, but Japan can help too, including on ramping up economic pressure on [Vladimir] Putin.”
The appeal comes less than 24 hours after European Commission President Ursula von der Leyen warned that Europe faces a “clear and present danger” due to the ongoing war between Ukraine and Russia. Von der Leyen stressed the need for European countries to strengthen their defense capabilities and ensure Ukraine is in a position of strength against Russia.
Ukraine and Russia have been engaged in conflict for over three years, resulting in significant casualties on both sides. The war has drawn widespread international condemnation, with many nations imposing sanctions on Russia and providing military and economic support to Ukraine.
DAILY MENTOR reports that Lammy’s call for Japan’s involvement highlights the global dimension of the conflict and the need for a united front to counter Russian aggression. Japan, as a major economic power, could play a crucial role in tightening the economic noose around Russia, further isolating Putin’s regime and weakening its ability to sustain the war effort.
The UK and European Union have been at the forefront of efforts to support Ukraine, but the involvement of other global powers, such as Japan, could significantly enhance the effectiveness of these measures. As the war continues, the international community remains committed to finding ways to end the conflict and restore peace to the region.
Lammy’s appeal underscores the importance of collective action in addressing global challenges and upholding the principles of sovereignty and international law.