“We do not recognize and strongly condemn this step by Russia that violates the sovereignty and territorial integrity of Ukraine,” Hayashi is quoted by TASS.
According to him, Russia's actions "violate the norms of international law."
The minister also said that Japan, together with the international community, "is considering the issue of a tough response to Russia's actions, including sanctions."
On February 21, Russian President Vladimir Putin signed decrees on Russia's recognition of the independence of the LNR and the DNR.
More details in the material RT.
Earlier, Vladimir Olenchenko, a senior researcher at the Center for European Studies at IMEMO RAS, commented in an interview with RT on the decision of Russian President Vladimir Putin to recognize the DPR and LPR.