Washington Pressures Tokyo to End Russian Energy Imports

On October 16, 2025, U.S. Treasury Secretary Scott Bessent urged Japan to fully halt its remaining imports of Russian energy. The discussion took place in Washington during meetings alongside the IMF, G7 and G20 financial summits. This diplomatic move marks a new phase in the U.S. strategy to further isolate the Russian economy through coordinated international sanctions.

Since the invasion of Ukraine, Japan has committed to gradually reducing its purchases of Russian oil. However, one critical exception remains: crude oil originating from the Sakhalin-2 project. This project plays a central role in Japan’s energy security, supplying roughly nine percent of its LNG imports. For Tokyo, eliminating this supply overnight raises concerns over energy stability and cost volatility.

As part of the broader tightening of G7 sanctions, the Japanese government has already taken concrete steps. It lowered the price cap for Russian oil from 60 dollars to 47.60 dollars per barrel, aligning itself with Washington’s demands for stronger enforcement. Japan has also announced the closure of its six Japan Center for Trade and Economic Development offices in Russia, signalling a further reduction in bilateral engagement.

Between January and July 2025, Japan imported approximately 599,000 barrels of Russian oil, representing only 0.1 percent of its total crude imports. Despite this limited share, the symbolic and strategic significance of Sakhalin-2 makes any decision politically sensitive.

This development illustrates the growing tension between Washington and Tokyo. While Japan remains a key U.S. ally, especially within the G7 sanctions framework, it must also manage the realities of its energy dependence. The coming months will reveal whether Tokyo can fully align with U.S. expectations without jeopardising its domestic energy security.