Japan's diplomatic outreach to Ukraine has gained prominence amid the prolonged conflict sparked by Russia's aggression, which began over three years ago. The plight of Ukrainian refugees like Maiia Kryachko reflects both the personal and collective trauma caused by the war, as they navigate life far from home and anticipate their uncertain futures.
Since the onset of the conflict, approximately 2,747 Ukrainians have sought refuge in Japan, with 1,982 still residing there. Kryachko, who evacuated from her hometown of Kamianske near Dnipro, embodies the struggles faced by many refugees. "I feel like I’ve been standing still for three years. I’ve got to move on now," she shared, contemplating the decision of whether to continue her life in Japan or return to Ukraine.
The emotional weight of this choice is palpable for Kryachko, who, along with her two children, has been living in public housing facilities within Tokyo. Initially, they fled to Warsaw, escaping the bombings, before arriving in Japan to reunite with family. While her children have started to embrace their lives here, engaging with local activities and language, she worries they are distant from their heritage, which has been dramatically altered by the war back home.
Back in Ukraine, conditions remain perilous. Kryachko's hometown has become engulfed by violence, marked by frequent missile attacks and humanitarian disasters. Some family members, including her elderly mother-in-law and brother, continue to remain there, increasing her anxiety about the state of her loved ones. Despite moments of hopelessness, she holds onto the hope of returning to work at the steel mill where she was previously employed, emphasizing, "as a Ukrainian, I want to build an independent life in my homeland and give my children an education."
At the same time, diplomatic engagements from Ukraine reveal the broader picture impacting bilateral relations with Japan. During a recent press conference, Ukrainian Ambassador Sergiy Korsunsky stressed the necessity of involving Ukraine in any ceasefire or peace agreements made with Russia. “Whatever we are going to accept, first must be closely coordinated with us and second must include security guarantees,” he stated emphatically.
Korsunsky expressed concerns over the potential sidelining of Ukraine as peace negotiations progress with external powers, hinting at fears around U.S. President Donald Trump's approach. For him, any peace must first restore security to Ukraine, which he feels can be simply achieved through NATO accession. He underscored the impossibility of conducting free elections under martial law when “it is impossible for everyone to freely participate.”
Despite these challenges, there are signals of cooperation and hope. Korsunsky noted Japan's role and experience as invaluable particularly when considering reconstruction efforts. He emphasized, “Japan is an unquestionable leader in experience of reconstruction,” pointing to its recovery history post-World War II and after natural disasters. His heartfelt gratitude for the Japanese government's support highlights the significance of their response to the Ukrainian crisis.
He also conveyed his optimism for Japanese corporate interest, envisioning future investments aimed at tapping Ukraine’s mineral resources. This prospect could serve as yet another pillar of economic collaboration between the two nations, assuming peace prevails.
Looking forward, the relationship between Japan and Ukraine appears to be rooted not just in sympathy but also strategic cooperation. While the challenges remain towering, there's measurable commitment from both sides to bolster bilateral relations, focusing on humanitarian relief, reconstruction, and potential investments to help Ukraine regain its footing once peace is secured.
The persistence of war continues to cast long shadows over the lives of Ukrainians, both at home and abroad. Still, as seen through Kryachko’s personal story and Korsunsky's diplomatic efforts, there exists resilience and hope as they navigate their paths through adversity.