Yoon Suk-yeol to Ukrainian Ambassador to Korea: "Participation in Russia Sanctions Is Natural"

"Hope for the Swift Realization of Ukraine's EU Membership"

People Power Party presidential candidate Yoon Seok-yeol appeals for support during a campaign rally held in front of U-PLEX at Hyundai Department Store Sinchon Branch in Seodaemun-gu, Seoul, on the afternoon of the 1st. (Photo by Yonhap News)

[Asia Economy Reporter Moon Chaeseok] Yoon Seok-yeol, the presidential candidate of the People Power Party, said on the 2nd to Dmytro Ponomarenko, the Ambassador of Ukraine to Korea, "I and the people of the Republic of Korea support and cheer for the Ukrainian president and people who are united in resolute resistance against Russia."

On the same day, Yoon met with Ambassador Ponomarenko at the Yeouido party headquarters in the afternoon and comforted him by saying, "How painful and difficult it must be for you as your homeland is being invaded." He then stated, "It is only natural that many free countries, including the Republic of Korea, condemn Russia's invasion, which is a clear violation of international law, and participate in sanctions."

He mentioned, "I and the people of the Republic of Korea strongly hope and support that the European Union (EU) membership applied for by the Ukrainian president will be realized soon." He added, "Russia should also stop war acts that violate international law, and countries around the world should promptly take international legal measures for Ukraine's freedom, independence, and peace."

Yoon said, "I understand that the Korean government has provided some support to Ukraine, but if you tell us what supplies or daily necessities the Ukrainian people need during the war, we will do our best."

In response, Ambassador Ponomarenko said, "The list of necessary daily necessities and supplies has been delivered to the Korean Ministry of Foreign Affairs and related departments," adding, "In principle, what is needed are strong financial sanctions, humanitarian aid, and military dispatch. However, I understand that Korea may find it difficult to make such decisions." He also requested support for cybersecurity technology, helmets, and bulletproof vests.

During the private meeting, Yoon handed over a letter and donations to Ambassador Ponomarenko to be sent to the Ukrainian people.

Spokesperson Jeon Ju-hye said about the letter, "It expresses condolences for the various losses caused by the Russian invasion and sympathy for the tragic situation," adding, "It contains a message of respect for the Ukrainian people and President Volodymyr Zelenskyy, and encouragement for Ukraine and President Zelenskyy who continue to resist without surrendering in this situation." Regarding the donations, she explained, "They were made in Yoon's personal capacity."

This content was produced with the assistance of AI translation services.