The EU High Representative for Foreign Affairs and Security Policy, Josep Borrell, is holding talks with South Korean Foreign Minister Cho Tae-yul, amid growing concerns in Seoul over North Korean troops being sent to Russia to take part in the war against Ukraine. This was reported by Reuters.
Borrell noted that Russia’s aggression against Ukraine is an existential threat, which, in his opinion, South Korea understands well. He emphasised unity in support of Ukraine and called on South Korea to increase this assistance.
Borrell’s visit to South Korea is aimed at raising the level of security and defence cooperation between the EU and Seoul. Prior to his visit to South Korea, Borrell visited Japan and the demilitarised zone that separates the two Koreas, stressing the need for greater investment in global security.
The meeting, part of the EU-South Korea Strategic Dialogue, took place amid concerns in Washington and Seoul about North Korea’s support for Russia in its war with Ukraine.
In Seoul, Borrell also met with South Korean Defence Minister Kim Yong-hyun, expressing his concern about the situation.
Last week, Cho Tae-yul said that Seoul is considering all possible scenarios in response to the question of possible arms supplies to Ukraine as a response to North Korea’s support for Russia.
Currently, South Korea provides Ukraine with only non-lethal aid, including demining equipment, but still refuses to supply Kyiv with weapons.
Seoul also believes that Moscow may be providing North Korea with military and civilian technology as Pyongyang seeks to launch a spy satellite and upgrade its missile capabilities.
