According to Kyodo news agency, which cites Japanese government sources, the Group of Seven (G7) countries are proposing a near-total embargo on exports to Russia.

On Thursday, Bloomberg reported that the US and Ukraine’s allies were discussing “an outright ban on most exports to Russia.” According to the newspaper, G7 officials were debating the concept ahead of 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 G7 countries and like-minded nations about possible further sanctions against Russia.

“What is important for ending Russian aggression as soon as possible is that G7 remains united for severe sanctions against Russia and strong support for Ukraine,” he told a press briefing.