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Japan Forward
10-07-2025
- Politics
- Japan Forward
Inside Ukraine: Nuclear Peril, Torture, and Environmental Crisis
More than three years into Russia's full-scale invasion of Ukraine, experts gathered at the Ukrainian Embassy in Tokyo on July 7 to spotlight a deepening pattern of Russian war crimes, nuclear threats, and environmental destruction. Jointly organized by Ukrainian human rights NGO Truth Hounds and United States-based Project Expedite Justice (PEJ), the briefing presented findings from a years-long investigation. Panelists opened the session with a stark reminder that the world's attention is fading just as Moscow's actions become more coordinated and brazen. "When Russia launched a full-scale invasion in February 2022, Russia's atrocities were on the first pages of newspapers," said Dmytro Koval, co-executive director of Truth Hounds. "It's unfortunate but not unexpected that Ukraine is disappearing from the media." Dmytro Koval, co-executive director of Truth Hounds and legal adviser at PEJ, responds to questions from the press. (©Kenji Yoshida) He stressed that the Russian military's violations are ongoing and not isolated. "They are not just some unconnected acts that violate international law or international human rights law, but a system of connected, organized violence." The impact, he added, stretches far beyond the front lines. One example cited was the June 6, 2023, destruction of the Kakhovka Dam on the Dnieper River in Kherson Oblast. The dam, which provided cooling water to Europe's largest nuclear facility at Zaporizhzhia, collapsed in what panelists described as a deliberate act of Russian sabotage. "[Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant] was licensed to operate only with the Kakhovka dam for cooling, but it was shut down by the Russians," said Roman Koval, head of research at Truth Hounds. The damage was immediate and widespread. An artificial flood destroyed wetlands, wiped out ecosystems, and contaminated drinking water for nearly one million people. In some areas, restoring groundwater is expected to take decades. Settlements on the left bank of the Dnieper River are underwater after the Kakhovka Dam was breached on June 6, 2023. (©АрміяInform) Using seismic data, satellite imagery, and firsthand accounts from engineers and residents, the investigation concluded that explosives were planted in the dam structure, access to which was controlled by Russian forces. "Based on our investigation, we concluded Russian troops carried out the explosion, and they were fully aware of the environmental consequences that would follow," said Cynthia Tai, an attorney and executive director of PEJ. Moscow has denied responsibility and blamed Ukrainian forces for the breach. The destruction of the dam has further destabilized the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant, which has been under severe conditions since Russian forces took control in March 2022. While the plant was placed in cold shutdown in the following September, it continues to experience power outages and other operational hazards. On July 4, just days before the Tokyo briefing, the International Atomic Energy Agency (IAEA) reported another complete loss of off-site power to the facility. Though the cause was not immediately determined, the incident coincided with air raid alarms in the region. A soldier stands guard at the Zaporizhzhia Nuclear Power Plant in southern Ukraine, June 15, 2023. (©Reuters) The recurrence of such incidents, Tai warned, shows how fragile the plant's safety has become. "What was once virtually unimaginable, that a major nuclear power plant would repeatedly lose its external power connections, has unfortunately become a common occurrence," she said, quoting the IAEA Director General. Experts also raised concerns over the militarization of the facility. According to Dmytro Koval, the Russian military has positioned veterans at or near the plant and has launched missiles over the facility to strike other parts of Ukraine. The use of critical civilian infrastructure for military purposes, along with its susceptibility to attack, presents significant long-term risks that extend beyond Ukraine's borders. Inside the plant, the situation is no less dire. Ukrainian personnel continue to work under what experts described as an atmosphere of intimidation and abuse. "Since the occupation of the Zaporizhzhia nuclear plant in 2022, dozens of Ukrainians have been held captive," said Roman Koval. "They are tortured because they resist the Russian occupation... Others fall victim because they refuse to sign contracts with the Russian [nuclear energy] company Rosatom." Based on 40 interviews conducted in Enerhodar City, where the plant is located, panelists said Rosatom officials were aware of the systematic torture and the existence of a network of detention chambers. In one incident, Ukrainian engineers were approached by members of the Russian security services and Rosatom associates, who pressured them to cooperate with Rosatom or face torture in the basement. Despite these conditions, Koval said satellite imagery of power line construction in May and June suggests Russia is seriously preparing to restart operations at the plant. Closing the session, the speakers called for stronger and more coordinated global action. "Strengthen and expand the international law framework with governance and response from the international community," said Dmytro Koval. "Joint actions that might change the behavior of the state." Asked whether existing legal institutions can deliver justice, he expressed confidence that both the dam's destruction and the occupation of the nuclear plant will ultimately reach the International Criminal Court. President Zelenskyy meets with European leaders at a security summit on March 26, 2025. European nations reaffirmed their support for Ukraine amid concerns over a weakening US commitment. (©Emmanuel Macron Twitter) Meanwhile, Tai said Japan is well positioned to contribute, citing its experience with the Hiroshima and Nagasaki bombings and the Fukushima nuclear accident in 2011. As one example, she noted that Fukushima University's Institute of Environmental Radioactivity is working with German and Ukrainian researchers to produce daily radiological forecast. In a related development on Wednesday, the European Court of Human Rights found Moscow responsible for grave and widespread human rights abuses in Ukraine since its full-scale invasion in 2022. Author: Kenji Yoshida
Japan Forward
02-07-2025
- Business
- Japan Forward
Fairmont Debuts in Tokyo Amid Japan's Luxury Hotel Boom
Fairmont Hotels and Resorts opened its first property in Japan on July 1, marking an entry into the country's fast-growing luxury hospitality market. Located in Tokyo's Minato Ward, the newly launched Fairmont Tokyo occupies the upper floors of the 43-story BLUE FRONT SHIBAURA tower, offering sweeping views of Tokyo Bay and the city's skyline. The property boasts 217 rooms and suites, an infinity pool, a spa and gym, and five dining venues that cater to international and domestic high-end travelers. Omer Acar, CEO of Fairmont Hotels & Resorts, delivers a speech at the opening ceremony on July 1. (©Kenji Yoshida) The opening ceremony on Tuesday drew hundreds of guests, including members of the media. Under the moniker of TSUNAGU, it highlighted the hotel's vision of fostering cultural and people-to-people connections. "The opening of Fairmont Tokyo marks a major milestone as we proudly bring the Fairmont brand to Japan for the first time," said Omer Acar, CEO of Fairmont Hotels and Resorts. "This hotel blends thoughtful innovation with the spirit of omotenashi, the Japanese philosophy of hospitality centered on sincerity and anticipation." A performance at Fairmont Tokyo's grand opening ceremony on July 1. (©Kenji Yoshida) General Manager Karan Singh noted the synergy between Fairmont's global heritage and Shibaura's rise as a dynamic waterfront hub. "Shibaura's transformation from an Edo-period coastal village to a vibrant area beautifully aligns with Fairmont's legacy of timeless destinations worldwide," he said. "We aim to be Tokyo's social epicenter, offering authentic service rooted in place." Fairmont's launch comes amid a sharp uptick in upscale hotel development across Japan. The growth is fueled by the post-pandemic recovery of inbound tourism, increasing numbers of affluent travelers, and a strategic focus by developers on high-end urban revitalization. Fairmont Tokyo Gold Lounge (©Fairmont Tokyo) As part of the redevelopment of Tokyo's Nihonbashi district, for instance, real estate giant Mitsui Fudosan plans to open the Waldorf Astoria Tokyo Nihonbashi in 2026. Similar projects are underway across the country, from Nagoya to Okinawa, and many are tied to large-scale mixed-use developments that include retail, office, and residential spaces. While Japan has long attracted both business and leisure travelers, its upscale hotel landscape has historically trailed behind global competitors. That, however, is beginning to change. Japan's luxury hotel market size reached $7 billion USD in 2024 and is projected to reach $10 billion by 2033, according to IMARC Group. In Tokyo, international luxury brands such as Dorchester Collection and 1 Hotel Tokyo are set to open in the coming months and years, expanding the city's high-end offerings. Landmark properties, the Imperial Hotel and Capera Kyoto, are currently under construction in Kyoto, with openings scheduled for 2026. In April, Hilton's flagship luxury brand made its Japanese debut in Osaka, drawing attention for suites priced at a whopping ¥2 million JPY (approximately $13,000) per night. Author: Kenji Yoshida
Japan Forward
02-06-2025
- Automotive
- Japan Forward
How Sustainability is Reshaping the Motorsports Industry
Sustainability and motorsports? At first glance, the two words seem almost incompatible. After all, auto racing has long been synonymous with speed, roaring engines, and clouds of carbon emissions. But a championship born in Britain is turning that perception on its head. Launched in 2014, Formula E is the world's first all-electric, single-seater motorsport, demonstrating that top-tier performance and environmental responsibility can go hand in hand. Designed to accelerate innovation in electric mobility, the series has become a global testbed for sustainable technologies. From tire recycling to low-emission logistics and clean energy use, Formula E sets a new benchmark for green racing. Amplifying this revolution are Japanese firms, harnessing the sport's platform to showcase cutting-edge technologies. Yamaha Motor Company Ltd, known for its motorcycles and robotics, has partnered with Team Laura Yamaha ABT to supply electric powertrains used to propel race cars. They also provide advanced energy management systems to extend range and enhance efficiency in electric vehicles. Teijin Limited, a leader in advanced materials and chemicals, is another example. Utilizing aramid technology, the company provides Team Envision with flame-resistant racing suits that withstand temperatures up to 400°C. Teijin's Tenax™ carbon fiber is also used in the world's first two-seater Formula E car, offering a lighter, more energy-efficient structure without compromising strength or speed. Team Envision showcases its race car and suit at an event in Tokyo. (©Kenji Yoshida) Meanwhile, TDK Corporation, a multinational electronics company, is collaborating with NEOM McLaren to deliver components like multilayer ceramic chip capacitors (MLCCs), voltage control systems, and temperature sensors. These technologies are crucial for regulating power and minimizing heat and signal interference under the extreme demands of electric racing. Leveraging the high-stakes environment of motor racing, these firms are stress-testing their equipment for real-world applications. The push for sustainability in Formula E isn't limited to suppliers, however. Manufacturers and racing teams themselves are integrating climate action into their core missions. Nissan Motor Corporation, the only Japanese automaker to field its own team, sees the championship as an extension of its electric vehicle strategy. "Formula E helps us accelerate transformation for road cars while promoting climate goals through specialized R&D and technical learning," said Tommaso Volpe, managing director of the Nissan Formula E team. Nissan's Tommaso Volpe signs an autograph for a fan in Tokyo (©Kenji Yoshida) Nissan is joined by an expanding lineup, including Jaguar TCS Racing, which is leading the way in using recycled components and circular economy principles. Andretti Global is also contributing to the shift, partnering with Porsche to develop energy-efficient racing technologies. Even teams not backed by traditional automakers are playing an important role. Envision Racing, based in Britain's Silverstone Park, is a notable one. Tag Heuer Porsche Formula E Team's garage at the Tokyo E-Prix. (©Kenji Yoshida) In 2020, it became the first motorsports team to sign the United Nations Framework Convention on Climate Change Sports for Climate Action Framework, pledging to align its operations with the Paris Agreement. The team has operated with net-zero carbon emissions since its inception. Envision also co-hosts the Race Against Climate Change summit in Tokyo alongside Teijin, bringing together industry leaders, investors, startups, and media to foster collaboration on climate solutions. Despite the growing traction of electric motorsports, challenges remain. Public perception is one. Traditional racing fans often lament the lack of a deafening engine blast and the spectacle of burning fuel. But Formula E insiders believe the sport's appeal lies elsewhere – namely, in its performance and trailblazing rules. "The Gen4 car, launching at the end of next year, will nearly double the power of our current model," said Sylvain Filippi, Envision Racing's managing director. "We're getting closer to Formula One performance — but without the emissions." For Filippi, the mission isn't about sacrifice, but innovation. "Most people want to maintain their lifestyles. The only viable path forward is breakthrough ideas and creativity." Team Envision's Sylvain greeting fans and sponsors at the Tokyo E-Prix in May (©Kenji Yoshida) Another headwind on the horizon is the United States' withdrawal from the 2015 climate accord, a move that has raised fresh doubts about the future of coordinated global climate efforts. To this, Nissan's Volpe remains unfazed. "These political decisions come and go. What matters is having a solid strategy that allows us to adapt," he said. "Formula E is still in a phase of significant growth. Not just for us, but for motorsport as a whole, and across all territories." Formula E now boasts a near 400 million international fan base and is expected to continue its upward trajectory. After completing the two-day race in Tokyo on May 17 and 18, the 11 Formula E teams will travel to four different cities to finish the season. Author: Kenji Yoshida
Japan Forward
19-05-2025
- Automotive
- Japan Forward
Tokyo Formula E Sparks Hope at Wobbling Nissan
The world of Formula E returned to Tokyo on May 17 for a two-day showdown. Now in its 11th year, the all-electric global championship has cemented itself as a proving ground for sustainable motorsports. Racing on home turf, Team Nissan drew special attention as the sole Japanese automaker on the grid. British driver Oliver Rowland rose to the occasion, clinching victory in Sunday's race and tightening his position in the season standings. Team Nissan's Garage at Tokyo Big Sight in Ariake (©Kenji Yoshida) But while the team enjoyed a boost on the track, the mood at Nissan's corporate headquarters told a different story. The company is facing a turbulent time. Slumping global sales and a string of strategic missteps have severely undermined confidence in the once-dominant auto giant. In May, Nissan announced a plan to cut approximately 20,000 jobs, or 15% of its global workforce. Merger talks with Honda, once seen as a potential lifeline, have collapsed over fundamental disagreements. Meanwhile, escalating US tariffs on Japanese vehicles add to the pressure. Still, Tommaso Volpe, managing director and team principal of Nissan Formula E, remains optimistic. In an exclusive interview with JAPAN Forward, Volpe shares why he believes Nissan's golden era is far from over. He has been with Nissan for over ten years. Excerpts follow. First of all, Oliver is in amazing shape this year. He seems to be controlling every single moment, apart from little mistakes, 99% of the time. He's really on top of everything. Our new car, unveiled this year [2025], is a big step forward in terms of the powertrain energy efficiency. This is key in Formula E races. On the team side, we have fine-tuned our process. We have become very agile, smart, and fast in processing information and making decisions. So we don't make as many mistakes as we have in the past. Nissan drivers Oliver Rowland (left) and Norman Nato (right) signing autographs for their fans (©Kenji Yoshida) We have selected a certain number of engineers working on electrification in Japan and moved them to France, where we are based for the car development. They also work with the rest of the team in Japan to ensure a constant connection between the two groups and an exchange of ideas. Proposals are made in both directions, from Nissan to Formula E, but also from Formula E to Nissan. Formula E manufacturers are very focused on the powertrain. There is a lot of R&D in this area and technical learning that can be exchanged between Formula E and electric vehicles. Therefore, the investments made in Formula E are relevant for Nissan's core business. While we don't have a direct impact on Nissan's business side, Team Nissan definitely helps the company in promoting our brand and its credibility when it comes to electric cars. Nissan is committed to Ambition 2030: our roadmap to electrify the majority of our vehicle lineup by 2030. At the moment, there are no obstacles to this program. If anything, it has become a public showcase of how much progress Nissan has made. Nissan technicians and engineers fine-tune the team's race car ahead of an upcoming match (©Kenji Yoshida) Just three years ago, the team was struggling, but now it's one of the top manufacturers in the championship. I hope this serves as a sign of what Nissan is still capable of, not only in motorsports but in our core business. We are indeed in a tough moment right now. But I'm sure the new CEO and management are putting together something very strong. I'm sure that 12 to 18 months from now, the company will be in a completely different situation. These political decisions come and go. When it comes to our core business, it's important to have a solid strategy to react and adapt accordingly. I believe Formula E is still in a phase of significant growth across all territories, including in motorsport as a whole. Because we are still in a growth phase, I don't think these decisions will have a major impact just yet. Unlike Formula One, which is more established and could be more directly affected, we're still expanding. These decisions might slow our growth slightly. But they won't stop our momentum. Author: Kenji Yoshida
