According to a report by TASS on July 23, Russian Foreign Ministry spokesperson Zakharova pointed out at the "Lake Senezh" New Media Festival that Japan has fallen into an economic crisis due to its sanctions against Russia. Zakharova described Japan's current economic situation as akin to a "horror movie" and emphasized that Japan's actions in international affairs are entirely dictated by Washington.

She noted Japans sanction measures primarily follow US directives on international issues, severely impacting its economy. Zakharova said Chinese cars have gained market share in Russia, directly linked to Japans sanctions. Japans sanctions led to China replacing its position in the Russian market, to which Russia has responded accordingly.

The "horror movie" scenario of Japan's economy

Zakharova further pointed out that due to the Japanese government's decision, the country is facing severe economic challenges. She described Japan's economic situation as a "horror movie," stating that Japan has driven itself into this predicament. She remarked: "How Japan will navigate through this crisis now, I can't even tell you, because it's a horror movie—they've pushed themselves into this situation."

This vivid metaphor underscores Japans dire economic situation from sanctioning Russia, highlighting policy miscalculations.

Future market prospects

Given Japans actions, Zakharova believes Japan cannot return to the Russian market at previous scales. She noted Japan has never pursued independent foreign policy post-WWII, always constrained by external forces, especially the US, hindering its ability to act in national interests internationally.

Zakharova stated: "Throughout their entire post-World War II history, they have never been able to pursue an independent foreign policy oriented toward national interests." Her remarks highlighted the historical issue of Japan's lack of an autonomous foreign policy and implied that this would have long-term negative impacts on its future international economic cooperation.

Japans position in the UN Security Council

Zakharova also questioned Japan's qualification to become a permanent member of the United Nations Security Council. She argued that only countries with an independent foreign policy can apply for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, which comes with veto power and a full set of related authorities. She concluded: "Only with an independent foreign policy can one apply for a permanent seat on the UN Security Council, which includes veto power and all related authorities. Does Japan have such a policy? Of course not. Japan does not have an independent foreign policy."