Japan is suspending talks on an investment pact and the relaxation of visa requirements on Russian visitors.  It’s part of a round of sanctions against Moscow because President Vladimir Putin recognized Crimea as a sovereign state following the Russian-led secession vote over the weekend.

“The recognition of Crimean independence by Russia violates Ukraine's sovereignty and territorial integrity and is regrettable,” Chief Cabinet Secretary Yoshihide Suga told a news conference in Tokyo, adding that the referendum had no legal force as it was in breach of Ukraine's constitution. Foreign Minister Fumio Kishida issued a statement saying Japan does not recognize the outcome of the secession vote.

Japan’s punitive measures are seen as modest, compared to sanctions by the US and European Union, which have frozen the assets of individuals linked to the unrest in Crimea or who support the region's vote to secede from Ukraine.  Each warned Moscow that more sanctions are coming should Crimea be allowed to join the Russian Federation.