The NPI "Ask What You Want to Know" series is a forum in which leading researchers discuss issues of current interest and field questions from the attendees. More than four months have passed since Russia invaded Ukraine in February 2022. Some are concerned that the conflict may be prolonged. While sanctions against Russia by the international community, including Japan, the U.S., and Europe, have been imposed, the negative effects of rising energy and food prices and higher cost of living in various countries have become apparent. In addition, cyberattacks targeting national administrative agencies and infrastructure, the flood of information on social networking services, and public opinion influenced by such attacks are also attracting attention as factors of hybrid war. We spoke directly from experts who are well-versed in both Ukraine and Russia about these realities and challenges, and Japan's response and international contributions.

Moderator

Fujisaki Ichiro, NPI President

Panelists

Kurai Takashi, Former Ambassador of Japan to Ukraine

Hirose Yoko, Senior Fellow, NPI; Professor, Keio University

Active discussion was held with the participation by attendees from the Ministry of Foreign Affairs, other government agencies, corporations, and the mass media. Questions from attendees were organized into the following four groups and posed to the panelists on the day of the event.

1. What are the possibilities and conditions for Russia and Ukraine to negotiate a ceasefire?

2. Why is anti-Putin momentum not growing in Russia?

3. What are the feelings of the Russian population in the Donbass region toward Russia due to the heavy Russian bombardment?

4. What is the background to the intimidating actions against Japan (e.g., the presidential decree ordering the transfer of the operating entity of "Sakhalin II" project to a new domestic operator, and the joint actions of the Chinese and Russian navies in the waters near Japan) and what measures should be taken by Japan?