"Surprise Visit: Japan's Foreign Minister Hayashi Arrives in Ukraine"

Japanese Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi made an unannounced visit to Ukraine, becoming the last Group of Seven member nation to do so since Russia's invasion in February 2022. Hayashi held talks with Ukrainian Foreign Minister Dmytro Kuleba and visited Bucha, a town symbolizing Moscow's atrocities in the war. Japan has pledged over $7.6 billion in support for Ukraine and provided assistance in various areas. Hayashi's visit aims to show support for Ukraine's defense efforts and promote economic reconstruction, with the presence of Japanese business leaders to encourage private sector engagement.