On Monday, the South Korean government reaffirmed its commitment to a phased measures approach regarding potential arms support to Ukraine, following Russia’s warning of severe repercussions if South Korea provides lethal weapons to Ukraine.
Koo Byoung Sam, spokesperson for South Korea’s Ministry of Unification, addressed the remarks made by Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrey Rudenko. Rudenko stated that if South Korean weapons are used to harm Russian citizens, it could lead to the complete destruction of bilateral relations. In a regular briefing, Koo responded, “The South Korean government has already expressed its firm stance on the deepening military and economic cooperation between Russia and North Korea multiple times.”
Koo emphasized that South Korea will monitor developments in military cooperation between Russia and North Korea and implement step-by-step measures based on progress. This reaffirmed the government’s existing phased response strategy, which includes the potential provision of defensive or even lethal weapons, depending on the situation.
In an interview with TASS on Sunday, Rudenko warned against South Korea’s potential arms support to Ukraine. He said, “Of course, we will respond in every way that we find necessary. It is unlikely that this will strengthen the security of the Republic of Korea itself.” He urged South Korea to evaluate the situation calmly and avoid reckless actions.