Russia Threatens South Korea Over Potential Military Aid to Ukraine: Severe Consequences Ahead?

Russia issued a warning on Sunday, threatening severe consequences if South Korea supplies lethal weapons to Ukraine. In an interview with TASS, Russian Deputy Foreign Minister Andrei Rudenko stated that bilateral relations would be severed if South Korean weapons were used against Russian citizens. He said that they would take all necessary measures in response to any South Korean lethal weapons support.

South Korean President Yoon Suk Yeol previously said in a press conference on November 7, “If North Korean forces gain modern warfare experience, it could pose a critical threat to our national security. We will adjust our support methods based on North Korea’s level of involvement, and we don’t rule out the possibility of weapon support.” This signals a shift from humanitarian and economic aid to potentially providing military assistance. While this aligns with the government’s consistent stance, no specific decisions on weapon support have been made yet.

Rudenko’s statements seem inconsistent. North Korea has deployed over 10,000 troops to Russia, who are already fighting in Ukraine. Reports indicate 500 North Korean soldiers have been killed and officers wounded. It’s hypocritical to accept North Korea’s military cooperation with Russia while rejecting South Korea’s potential support to Ukraine. North Korea is a legally recognized adversary, and we cannot ignore its military actions that threaten our security.

The Ukraine conflict has intensified recently after U.S. President-elect Donald Trump hinted at a ceasefire. Trump, set to take office on January 20, plans to establish borders based on the ceasefire date.

As Russia and Ukraine fight to gain leverage in ceasefire negotiations, North Korea’s troop deployment adds a new dimension. North Korea is gaining valuable combat experience, and if Russia provides them with air defense systems, it could challenge South Korean air superiority. In this context, South Korea’s interest in supporting Ukraine is understandable.

Notably, Rep. Mike Waltz expressed concern on Fox News that North Korea’s involvement has prompted the U.S. and European allies to authorize long-range missile use in Ukraine. Russia has responded by launching new ballistic missiles, and South Korea is considering intervention, potentially escalating the conflict. By exploring a phased response, South Korea is strengthening its diplomatic and military position, even if it doesn’t ultimately provide lethal weapons.