S. Korea Considers Direct Arms Supplies to Ukraine

South Korean President Yoon Suk-yeol stated on Thursday that the country, one of the world's top arms exporters, may consider direct military support to Ukraine.

This follows reports indicating that North Korea has deployed troops to support Russia in its ongoing war with Ukraine.

Yoon noted in a press briefing in Seoul that South Korea’s stance on military aid could evolve based on North Korea’s level of involvement in the conflict.

South Korea has historically maintained a policy against exporting weapons to active conflict zones, but the situation appears to be shifting.

In response to reports that North Korea has allegedly sent around 11,000 troops to Russia’s Kursk region near the Ukrainian border, South Korea’s government is now reviewing the potential for a more direct supply of arms to Ukraine.

However, President Yoon emphasized that if South Korea decides to send military support, it would focus on defensive equipment rather than offensive arms.

President Yoon's comments come as relations between North and South Korea remain strained. He also mentioned a recent conversation with US President-elect Donald Trump, indicating an agreement to meet soon to discuss security issues in the region, including the challenges posed by North Korean activities.

North Korea has reportedly engaged in actions such as sending over 7,000 “trash balloons” to South Korea and frequently interfering with GPS signals.

Meanwhile, the escalating support from North Korea to Russia has led to heightened concerns across international fronts.

In a recent development, Russia’s Federation Council ratified a mutual defense treaty with North Korea, originally signed during a rare visit by Russian President Vladimir Putin to Pyongyang in June.