South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol suggested in a Reuters interview that Seoul may consider arming Ukraine.
Yoon's statements mark the first sign of a shift in Seoul's policy against providing Ukraine with lethal weapons.
- Yoon
said: "It might be difficult for us to insist only on humanitarian or
financial support," in the event of a "large-scale attack on civilians."
- He
added that "there won't be limitations" on the extent of South Korea's
support if Ukraine faces an illegal invasion "under international and
domestic law."
- South Korea's government has so far refused
to supply Kyiv with weaponry over concerns that such a move will
undermine relations with Russia, where many South Korean companies continue to operate.
Zoom Out:
- South Korea is a major global producer of artillery ammunition.
- Leaked documents indicate that Seoul has faced pressure from the U.S. to start providing weapons to help Ukraine fight against the ongoing Russian invasion.
- Seoul agreed last week to lend the U.S. 500,000 rounds of 155mm artillery shells, which could boost Washington's ability to reinforce Ukraine's military stockpiles.
- Yoon is scheduled to meet with U.S. President Joe Biden next week at a summit in Washington commemorating the anniversary of the two countries' alliance.
