Japan to join NATO-led Ukraine aid initiative with non-lethal support

Japan plans to join a NATO-led initiative designed to channel military assistance to Ukraine, as reported by the Japanese public broadcaster NHK. The move would align Tokyo with a key Western effort to support Kyiv as the conflict with Russia approaches its fifth year.

Joining a Multinational Framework

The program, known as the Prioritized Ukraine Requirements List, was launched last year by NATO and the United States. It includes NATO members such as Germany and the Netherlands, as well as non-member partners like Australia and New Zealand. The framework has already expedited the delivery of critical supplies, including missiles for Patriot air-defense systems, to Ukraine.

Focus on Funding and Non-Lethal Aid

According to NHK's sources within NATO, Japan is expected to formally announce its contribution in the coming weeks. Tokyo's involvement is anticipated to center on providing funding and non-lethal defense equipment. Potential aid could include items such as radar systems, bulletproof vests, and other protective gear, rather than direct weapons supplies.

A Substantial Collective Effort

Under this mechanism, NATO allies have collectively committed approximately $2.2 billion in military aid to Ukraine, encompassing both lethal and non-lethal support. Japan's planned participation would mark a further expansion of its support for Ukraine, within the legal and policy constraints of its pacifist constitution.