Russia Sanctions Failing to Stanch Energy Deals With Japan

Japan, dependent on imports for almost all its fuel, is pursuing natural gas projects and energy purchases in Russia despite new sanctions last week designed to punish Vladimir Putin and his associates.

Japan won’t be keen on deeper sanctions that would curb its access to gas, oil and coal from Russia, said Will Pearson, a London-based director of Eurasia Group, an energy and natural resources consultant. “Japanese firms are very interested in accessing Russian natural resources, thanks to their proximity,” he said.