Ukrainian President Vladimir Zelensky has spoken in favor of developing economic relations with South Korea and called for allowing the delivery of Korean anti-aircraft systems to Ukraine.
“Given the resources Ukraine has and the technology Korea has, I believe we can achieve great results in the field of lithium batteries,” he said in an interview with Chosun Ilbo.
“We are trying to rebuild the country by learning from Korea’s experience in the ruins of war and combining it with our own experience. We can cooperate a lot in security and defense, advanced technology and cyberspace, and in the process of rehabilitating our people after the war. We are also very interested in cooperation in the field of green energy. Given Ukraine’s resources, Korea’s large reserves and technological capabilities, I think the field of lithium batteries is very promising. After lithium extraction in Ukraine, it’s possible to produce related products. We have lithium production capacities from the time of the former Soviet Union,” he also said.
In addition, Zelensky noted assistance to Ukraine in terms of demining. “Currently, about a third of Ukraine’s territory is covered with anti-personnel mines. Thousands of farmers, civilians and children have been killed or disabled because of Russian anti-personnel mines. Mine clearance equipment is one of Ukraine’s most important defense systems that saves lives. The demining equipment that South Korea has decided to provide will save the lives and health of countless farmers and children,” Zelensky said.
The president also called for assistance to Ukraine with deliveries of anti-aircraft systems. “We know that there are several restrictions on arms support. However, I believe that Korea’s principles should not apply to defense systems and equipment to protect energy systems. Air defense systems are purely defensive equipment, not weapons. There must be a “sky shield” to rebuild Ukraine. We sincerely hope that Korea will support us in this area. Besides, there is an early warning system for Russian air strikes, which also needs help from South Korea,” the president said.
