Ukraine wanted to buy arms from South Korea that would help in confronting the Russian army, but Seoul refused, South Korea’s SBS News reported.
According to the publication, the Ukrainian delegation asked for authorization to purchase Korean weapons, not a free transfer. In particular, Cheongung medium-range surface-to-air missiles.
According to the source, Ukraine asked for non-lethal weapons. In addition to Cheongung interceptor missiles, the Ukrainians were interested in radars – for air defense and anti-artillery. The Ukrainians also requested charges for 155mm artillery shells.
It is likely that Korean defense companies such as LIG Nex1, Hanwha and Hyundai Rotem have received offers from Ukraine to cooperate on arms purchases. But the South Korean Defense Ministry recommended them to refrain from signing contracts. The reason for the refusal is allegedly “a high risk of violating foreign trade laws restricting exports to combat zones”.
As reported, a Ukrainian delegation headed by Defense Minister Rustem Umerov visited Seoul earlier this week.
