"Don't Do Reckless Acts" Russia Warns South Korea Over Ukraine Support

Russia has issued a strong warning that relations between the two countries could collapse if the South Korean government supports Ukraine. Russia even directly mentioned Defense Minister Shin Won-sik.

On the 26th (local time), local media reported that Maria Zakharova, spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs, stated in a briefing, "We warn the South Korean government against reckless actions that would completely destroy friendly relations with Russia."

Spokesperson Zakharova said, "The South Korean defense chief mentioned the necessity of direct military support to Ukraine, including lethal weapons," but did not specify what the 'reckless actions' referred to.

Earlier, Defense Minister Shin Won-sik said in a recent media interview, "Personally, as a member of the free world, I believe full support (to Ukraine) is the way to go," but added, "However, I support the government's policy to limit support to humanitarian and financial levels."

Maria Zakharova, Spokesperson for the Russian Ministry of Foreign Affairs
[Photo by TASS Yonhap News]

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Furthermore, Russia denied allegations of arms transactions with North Korea, calling them 'fake information.' Zakharova said, "Recently, claims have emerged in Seoul that Russia and North Korea are cooperating on military technology," and added, "We want to emphasize that these claims targeting us are unproven, baseless, and therefore illegal."

Zakharova also claimed, "Behind South Korea's statements is the United States, which is cunningly trying to involve its Asian ally South Korea in the Ukraine conflict," and added, "We firmly reject any attempts by the United States and its allies."

She further emphasized, "Russia has the right to develop friendly relations with North Korea, and the relationship with North Korea has deep historical roots," and "It has been verified that it does not threaten the security of neighboring countries."

Meanwhile, the Ministry of Trade, Industry and Energy announced on the 26th of last month that it would add 682 items that could be diverted for military purposes to the list of items requiring situational approval, in cooperation with the international community's export control measures against Russia. This included construction heavy equipment, rechargeable batteries, aircraft parts, and some automobiles.

In response, Russia warned, "We have the right to respond to this," and stated, "This could harm South Korea's economy and industry," signaling possible retaliation.

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