Zelenskyy asks Japan PM Takaichi to visit Kyiv: lower house speaker

Japanese House of Representatives Speaker Eisuke Mori announced on Tuesday that Ukrainian President Volodymyr Zelenskyy requested Prime Minister Sanae Takaichi to visit Kyiv. Mori relayed the request to Kyodo News, stating that he would appropriately convey it to Takaichi. Prime Minister Fumio Kishida had previously visited Kyiv in 2023, but Takaichi, who assumed office in October of the same year, has not yet traveled to the Ukrainian capital.

Zelenskyy has been urging leaders and senior officials from various countries to visit Kyiv to highlight the severity of Russia's ongoing full-scale invasion, which began in February 2022. Mori assured that he would inform the prime minister of the request, expressing the hope that she and her associates would consider the possibility of a visit.

He emphasized Japan's commitment to standing together with other nations to intensify pressure on Russia. During their meeting, Zelenskyy also sought bilateral cooperation with Japan in the fields of drones and unmanned surface vessels, areas where Ukraine is making significant technological advancements. Mori remarked that Japan should approach these areas with an open mind, willing to cooperate.

Zelenskyy also communicated his appreciation for the presence of the Japanese delegation in Kyiv, regardless of the threats faced, and expressed readiness to welcome Takaichi to Ukraine. They discussed the need for energy support for Ukraine ahead of winter, as well as defense cooperation.