President of Ukraine Volodymyr Zelenskyy held a telephone conversation with Prime Minister of Japan Shigeru Ishiba.
The Head of State congratulated Shigeru Ishiba on his appointment as Prime Minister and thanked Japan for all the humanitarian and financial aid provided to Ukraine in the total amount of USD 12 billion. In particular, the President noted the Japanese Government's decision to transfer to Ukraine an additional USD 3 billion secured by frozen Russian assets.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy also welcomed the additional assistance for energy equipment and the construction of shelters approved by the Japanese Parliament.
The Head of State highlighted Russia’s mass attacks on Ukraine’s energy infrastructure on Christmas night. Therefore, protecting and restoring energy systems is a priority as Russia tries to leave Ukrainians without heat and light during winter.
Volodymyr Zelenskyy and Shigeru Ishiba condemned the DPRK's involvement in Russia's invasion of Ukraine. The Prime Minister stated that Japan takes this escalation extremely seriously, considering it a major security threat in the Indo-Pacific region, and is ready to increase sanctions pressure on the aggressor.
The President also thanked Japan for its readiness to work with the democratic world, particularly the new US Administration, to achieve a just and lasting peace for Ukraine as soon as possible.
In addition, the parties agreed to meet and continue the dialogue.