TOKYO - The Group of Seven (G-7) countries are considering a near-total ban on exports to Russia, Kyodo news agency reported on Friday, citing Japanese government sources.

Bloomberg news on Thursday also reported that the United States and Ukraine’s allies were considering “an outright ban on most exports to Russia”. That report said officials from G-7 nations were discussing the idea before a summit meeting in Japan next month.

Asked about the Bloomberg report, Japan’s Chief Cabinet Secretary Hirokazu Matsuno said the government was aware of it but refrained from commenting on exchanges among G-7 countries and like-minded nations about possible further sanctions against Russia.

“What is important for ending Russian aggression as soon as possible is that G-7 remains united for severe sanctions against Russia and strong support for Ukraine,” he told a press briefing. REUTERS