Japan has decided to freeze the assets of 17 more Russians, bringing the total number of people subject to sanctions in connection with the 'Ukraine crisis' to 61, Reuters reported.

The move comes after the United States imposed sanctions on a host of Russians, including billionaire Viktor Vekselberg and 12 State Duma deputies.

Vekselberg also came under Japanese sanctions, as did 11 State Duma deputies and five family members of banker Yuri Kovalchuk, according to Japan's Finance Ministry.

"Japan will act in line with other G7 countries on sanctions," said Hirokazu Matsuno, a senior government official.

"As for sanctions hereafter, we'll continue to watch conditions and, along with other G7 nations, respond appropriately," Matsuno told reporters at a news conference.

Tokyo has also imposed sanctions on Russia's central bank and seven private banks, among other organizations, as well as various Belarusian citizens, banks and organizations.

Foreign Minister Yoshimasa Hayashi told reporters that the Ukraine crisis showed the need to reform the UN Security Council, where Russia has a permanent seat, and he said Japan would press its case to become a permanent member.

As part of tougher restrictions against Moscow, Japan also said it would expand its ban on exports to Russia to include 31 goods, such as semiconductors, communications equipment, sensors and radars, as well as 26 technology packages.