South Korea Considers Breaking Arms Policy to Aid Ukraine Amid North Korea’s Alleged Involvement in War
South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol has hinted at a potential shift in the country’s longstanding policy of not providing weapons to countries in conflict, citing the alleged involvement of North Korea in the Ukraine war, Al Jazeera reports.
Following reports of 10,000 North Korean troops deployed to support Russia, President Yoon expressed concerns over Pyongyang’s growing influence and the potential for its soldiers to gain valuable combat experience. He also highlighted concerns about alleged sensitive military technology transfers from Russia to North Korea as a reward for their involvement.
President Yoon has acknowledged that the situation presents a serious threat to Seoul and has not ruled out the possibility of providing weapons to Ukraine. If such a decision is made, initial shipments would focus on defensive equipment.
The president also revealed that he had discussed the situation with US President-elect Donald Trump in a recent phone conversation, setting the stage for a face-to-face meeting in the near future.
South Korea, a major arms exporter, has previously provided weapons to Poland, including rocket launchers, tanks, and fighter aircraft. President Yoon has ambitious plans to further solidify South Korea’s position as a global arms exporter, aiming to become the world’s fourth-largest supplier.
The escalation of North Korea’s involvement in the Ukraine conflict coincides with a deepening security partnership between Moscow and Pyongyang. On Wednesday, Russia’s Federation Council formally ratified a mutual defense pact with North Korea, strengthening their cooperation to unprecedented levels since the Cold War.
