Following the deployment of forces into Ukraine in February of last year, Russia was subjected to a wave of sanctions but calls from Kyiv and its allies for more severe measures against Moscow have risen.

Japan held the Group of Seven conference last week in Hiroshima, where the leaders of the group decided to "starve Russia of G7 technology, industrial equipment, and services that support its war machine." The most recent embargo by Tokyo follows that summit.

The latest Japanese penalties include "an asset freeze of Russian individuals and groups, a ban on the export of goods to Russia's military-related organizations, and a ban on the export of construction and engineering services to Russia," according to top government spokesperson Hirokazu Matsuno.

17 people and 78 organizations, including senior military officers are the focus of the asset freeze.

The United States, Britain, and the European Union have all announced fresh punishments against Moscow recently, as well as commitments of more military aid to Ukraine, including F-16 fighters.