A Japanese lawmaker, Shigefumi Matsuzawa, raised the issue in parliament of the possibility of transferring interceptor missiles for Patriot air defense systems to Ukraine. This is reported by Ukrinform, citing journalist Takashi Hirano and statements by the politician himself.
Source: Bukvy
During a meeting of the House of Representatives Committee on Foreign Affairs and Defense, Matsuzawa addressed Japan’s Defense Minister Shinjiro Koizumi, calling for support in supplying Ukraine with the relevant weapons.
The lawmaker stressed that Ukraine continues to suffer mass missile attacks from Russia and faces a shortage of interceptor missiles, which leads to civilian casualties.
“Japan has relaxed the rules on the transfer of defense equipment, which has allowed the export of weapons. There are still a number of obstacles to supplying Patriot missiles to Ukraine, but they are not insurmountable. President Zelenskyy is very eager to obtain Patriot missiles. Now is the time for Japan to take a step toward active support. Minister Koizumi, I ask you to show leadership. A political decision is needed,” Matsuzawa said.