Japan to Step up Sanctions Against Russia

[Cali_Democrat]

Japan is imposing more sanctions against Russia over its support for pro-Moscow rebels in Ukraine who are accused of shooting down a Malaysian jet, the chief government spokesman said Monday.

The sanctions include the freezing of assets held in Japan by individuals and groups supporting the separation of Crimea from Ukraine, as well as restrictions on imports from Crimea, Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga said.

He noted that the steps are in line with measures taken by the European Union and Group of Seven nations.

Japan will also follow a recent decision by the European Bank for Reconstruction and Development to freeze funds for new projects in Russia, Suga said.

http://abcnews.go.com/International/wireStory/japan-step-sanctions-russia-24737327