South Korea considers arms support for Ukraine amid North Korea’s alleged troop deployment to Russia
South Korea has warned that it might consider supplying weapons to Ukraine following allegations that North Korea has sent troops to Russia to bolster Moscow's military efforts in Ukraine. South Korean officials view these developments as a serious security threat, as they fear that Russia may reciprocate by providing North Korea with advanced weapons technologies that could enhance its nuclear and missile capabilities aimed at South Korea.
Emergency National Security Council Meeting
During an emergency meeting of the National Security Council, South Korean officials condemned North Korea's alleged troop deployment, labeling the North as “a criminal group” that forces its youths to serve as Russian mercenaries in an “unjustifiable war.” The presidential office stated that South Korea plans to implement phased countermeasures, which will be linked to the extent of military cooperation between Russia and North Korea.
A senior official in President Yoon Suk-yeol's administration indicated that South Korea is exploring various options, including diplomatic, economic, and military measures. This includes the potential for South Korea to supply both defensive and offensive weapons to Ukraine if the situation demands. “We would consider supplying weapons for defensive purposes as part of the step-by-step scenarios, and if it seems they are going too far, we might also consider offensive use,” the official said during a briefing on the condition of anonymity.
Tensions have been rising as North Korea and Russia have
