Japan's latest parliamentary elections on July 20, 2025, proved a turning point for the country. For the first time since 1955, the ruling Liberal Democratic Party (LDP) lost its majority in the Upper House. A similar defeat occurred in the Lower House earlier, marking the end of an era of LDP's stable one-party rule.
The primary cause of the LDP's collapse was a large corruption scandal involving hidden funds, implicating over 80 lawmakers including party leaders. As a result, voters punished the party at the polls.
The Constitutional Democratic Party led by former Prime Minister Sihi Konoda achieved its best ever result, though internal debates continue over its political direction.
The Democratic People's Party made an unexpectedly strong showing, more than doubling its seats, while the right-wing populist Senseito party became a phenomenon among younger voters thanks to its anti-system rhetoric and social media strategy. However, accusations emerged over Senseito's ties with Moscow, including interviews with Russian media and financial relationships with Russian-linked firms.
Despite these issues, Japan maintains bipartisan support for Ukraine in the war, and sanctions against Moscow enjoy widespread backing. Nevertheless, political instability could threaten the sustainability of this support.
Japan has already provided Ukraine with military equipment, and the 2024 budget allocated $180 million in aid. Populist and far-right forces with some pro-Russian sentiment are on the rise, prompting Ukraine to diversify its partnerships beyond traditional allies.
Japan has joined the global wave of political populism, ending its era of stable single-party democracy. However, support for Ukraine from Japanese society remains a significant factor.
