Russia's military invasion of Ukraine continues.
Russian and Ukrainian forces continue to fight in various parts of Ukraine, and many civilians are fleeing the country. We will update you on the situation in Ukraine on the 17th (Japan time), including the situation of the battle and the diplomacy of the countries concerned.
(There is a 7-hour time difference between Japan and Ukraine, and 6 hours with Moscow, Russia.)
"U.S. aid suspension could lead to a massive setback or defeat in Ukraine," U.S. media
CNN in the United States reported on the 15th that Western intelligence agencies are trying to estimate how long Ukraine will be able to hold out if the support of the United States and NATO = North Atlantic Treaty Organization stops.
In it, a senior U.S. military official said that at worst, there could be a major retreat or defeat of the Ukrainian army by next summer.
In the event of a halt to support, the first to run out at the site will be long-range missiles, followed by missiles of air defense systems, followed by artillery shells and anti-tank missiles "Javelins".
In addition, U.S. and Ukrainian officials have already reported that due to a shortage of ammunition, the Ukrainian army has been able to shell less than one-fifth of the Russian army, causing more casualties on the Ukrainian side.
In the US Congress, some of the opposition Republicans are reluctant to continue support for Ukraine, and attention is being paid to whether the support that greatly affects the situation of the war will be maintained.
Deputy Minister of Foreign Affairs of Russia: "Peace treaty negotiations, etc., no prospect of dialogue with Japan"
On the 16th, Interfax News Agency reported an interview with Deputy Foreign Minister Rudenko of the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs in charge of Japan and other Asia-Pacific regions.
Commenting on the sanctions imposed by Japan since the invasion of Ukraine, Rudenko said, "Unless the Kishida administration abandons its policy of hostility toward Russia, full-fledged bilateral dialogue is impossible.
In addition, Prime Minister Abe stated that "there is no prospect of continuing dialogue with Japan on the conclusion of a treaty of friendship and cooperation," and reiterated his recognition that it would be difficult to continue negotiations on a peace treaty with Japan, including the Northern Territories issue.
Russia unilaterally announced last year that it would suspend negotiations on a peace treaty with Japan, and relations between the two countries have remained cold.
On the other hand, Deputy Minister Rudenko said that practical exchanges between the two countries have not disappeared, and that the vacant position of Russian ambassador to Japan is expected to take up the post soon.