In a recent development, Russian President Vladimir Putin has issued a stern warning to South Korea, cautioning that any decision to supply weapons to Ukraine would be a "very big mistake."
This warning comes on the heels of South Korea's announcement that it would reconsider its stance on arms supply to Ukraine, following a mutual defense pact signed between Russia and North Korea.
According to American Military News, Putin, during a press conference in Vietnam, stated, "As for the supply of lethal weapons to the combat zone in Ukraine, it would be a very big mistake. I hope it will not happen. If it does, then we too will then make the respective decisions, which South Koreas current leadership is unlikely to be pleased with." This statement was made in response to South Korea's announcement that it would reconsider its policy of not providing lethal aid to countries engaged in conflict.
South Korea's assistance to Ukraine has thus far been limited to non-lethal aid such as first-aid kits, medicine, portable mine detectors, and protective gear. However, the recent treaty between Russia and North Korea, which pledges immediate military assistance if either country is attacked, has prompted South Korea to reconsider its stance.
During Putin's first visit to North Korea in 24 years, he and North Korean leader Kim Jong Un agreed to offer military assistance "without delay" if either country is attacked. This new partnership treaty was signed following their summit on Wednesday.
South Korea's National Security Adviser Chang Ho-jin expressed strong condemnation of both countries, stating, "We plan to reconsider the issue of arms support to Ukraine." He further added that any cooperation that directly or indirectly aided North Korea's military enhancement was a violation of U.N. Security Council resolutions and would be subject to international scrutiny and sanctions.
Chang also expressed grave concern over the comprehensive strategic partnership agreement between North Korea and Russia, which aims to strengthen mutual military and economic cooperation.
John Kirby, the spokesperson for U.S. President Joe Bidens National Security Council, echoed Chang's sentiments, stating that the announcement by Russia and North Korea of their pact was "no surprise" but it boded poorly for the people of Ukraine and the Korean peninsula. Kirby also suggested that the agreement was a sign of Russia's desperation, stating, "I mean, theyre reaching out to North Korea for missiles, and theyre getting drones from Iran. They dont have a lot of friends in the world."
The United States has claimed that North Korea has supplied Russia with large amounts of weapons for its war in Ukraine, including artillery rounds and ballistic missiles. However, both Russia and North Korea have vehemently denied these allegations. The unfolding geopolitical dynamics in the region continue to raise concerns about the potential escalation of conflicts and the implications for global peace and security.
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