Japan to Strengthen Counter-Espionage Measures Amidst Russian Spy Activity Allegations

Kathmandu. Following revelations by international media that Russia is using Japan as a center for espionage activities and the purchase of war-related technology, Japan has stated the need to take stricter measures against foreign espionage activities.

Government Chief Spokesperson Minoru Kihara stated on Monday that in the changing security environment, foreign espionage activities aimed at obtaining sensitive information related to national security are becoming an increasing challenge, and there is a need for effective resistance against them. Although he did not comment directly on The New York Times report, he made it clear that the government will address this issue more seriously.

An investigative report published on Sunday claimed that due to weak espionage laws, Russia has made Japan a major center for collecting intelligence and purchasing dual-use technology and equipment used in the Ukraine war.

According to the report, as direct exports to Russia are banned, necessary materials are being supplied to Russia through intermediary companies in Japan, via third countries including Vietnam, Uzbekistan, and Sri Lanka. It also discusses the espionage network secretly operated from the office of Russian airline Aeroflot in Tokyo.

According to Ukrainian estimates, about 90 percent of the Japanese components are used in Russian missiles and drones currently in use.

Meanwhile, Spokesperson Kihara informed that the Japanese parliament has already passed a law this year to form a new national agency to coordinate intelligence activities scattered across various bodies. According to him, the new mechanism is expected to make the monitoring and resistance of foreign espionage activities more effective.